Boise, Idaho – A quieter and drier weather pattern is expected to take hold across Idaho and Montana heading into mid-January, bringing below-normal precipitation and limiting opportunities for widespread rain or snow across the Northern Rockies.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Idaho and Montana are favored to see below-normal precipitation during the January 9–13 period, while temperatures trend near to slightly above seasonal averages. This setup supports fewer storm systems crossing the region and longer stretches of dry weather.
Across southern and western Idaho, including Boise, Twin Falls, Pocatello, and Idaho Falls, precipitation chances remain low, allowing for generally dry travel conditions along I-84, I-86, and U.S. 20. Cold overnight temperatures are still expected, but limited moisture reduces the risk for impactful snowfall.
In Montana, including Missoula, Helena, Great Falls, and Bozeman, snow chances also appear lower than normal for mid-January. While mountain areas may still see occasional light snow, overall snowfall potential remains limited, reducing travel impacts along passes such as Lookout Pass, Homestake Pass, and Rogers Pass.
Residents should remain mindful of chilly mornings, patchy valley fog, and temperature inversions that may affect air quality during stagnant conditions. Overall, the drier pattern is expected to persist into mid-January, though additional updates may be issued if storm tracks shift back toward the Northern Rockies later in the month.
