Pocatello, Idaho – Drivers across eastern Idaho could face sudden visibility drops to near zero Saturday afternoon as powerful winds whip across the Upper Snake River Plain, sending thick clouds of dust over highways and rural roads.
According to the National Weather Service in Pocatello, a Wind Advisory remains active through 9 p.m. Friday with southwest winds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts reaching 50 mph. Conditions intensify Saturday when a High Wind Warning begins at 9 a.m. West winds will increase to 35 to 45 mph with gusts as strong as 65 mph. A Blowing Dust Warning follows from noon until 9 p.m. Saturday as loose soil lifts across open farmland and desert terrain.
Communities including Pocatello, Idaho Falls, Blackfoot, and American Falls sit within the most vulnerable stretch of the Upper Snake River Plain. Wind gusts could push dust across Interstate 15, U.S. Highway 20, and several rural county roads, creating sudden walls of dust that sharply reduce visibility.
Officials warn that high-profile vehicles such as semis, RVs, and trailers could struggle to maintain control in crosswinds. Isolated power outages are also possible if tree limbs or debris strike power lines.
Drivers who encounter blowing dust should pull completely off the roadway, turn off vehicle lights, and keep their foot off the brake pedal to avoid rear-end collisions. Residents with respiratory conditions should remain indoors and keep windows closed during peak dust periods.
Strong winds ease after 9 p.m. Saturday, but additional advisories could follow if gusty conditions linger into early Sunday.
