Pocatello, Idaho – Gusty winds and scattered thunderstorms are setting the stage for critical fire weather across southeastern Idaho, as Red Flag Warnings blanket the region from noon to 9 p.m. Tuesday. Fast-changing conditions could ignite new wildfires and rapidly spread existing flames in the Centennial Mountains, Snake River Valley, Caribou Range, and Twin Falls area.
According to the National Weather Service in Pocatello, erratic wind gusts exceeding 45 mph are possible near thunderstorms, with 25–35% storm coverage expected across Fire Weather Zones 410, 411, 413, and 427. Relative humidity will plummet to as low as 16 percent, creating ideal conditions for fire starts sparked by lightning.
Communities in Idaho Falls, Driggs, Montpelier, Soda Springs, and southward to Twin Falls should prepare for sudden changes. Local roads—especially in mountain passes and open valley stretches—may face low visibility due to blowing dust and smoke. Residents and landowners are urged to avoid open flames, delay outdoor burning, and have evacuation plans ready. Firefighters may struggle to contain any new starts given the unpredictable winds.
These warnings mark one of the most dangerous fire weather days of the summer so far, echoing July 2021’s multi-county wildfire outbreak. The threat persists into Tuesday evening, with more advisories possible as storms develop.
