Boise, Idaho – A noticeable shift toward milder and drier winter weather is expected across Idaho beginning Thursday, with temperatures trending above normal while precipitation chances fall below average through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, Idaho is forecast to experience above-normal temperatures from Thursday through Monday, paired with below-normal precipitation. This pattern limits storm activity across the northern Rockies and brings a quieter stretch to what is typically an active period for winter weather.
Southern Idaho, including Boise, Nampa, Meridian, Twin Falls, and the Snake River Plain, is expected to see mostly dry conditions with daytime highs running warmer than typical for mid-January. Overnight lows will still dip below freezing at times but are expected to remain closer to seasonal norms, reducing the risk of prolonged hard freezes in valley locations. Morning inversions or low clouds may develop during calmer periods.
Central and eastern Idaho, including Sun Valley, Idaho Falls, Rexburg, and Pocatello, will also trend drier than normal. While temperatures will remain cold enough for winter conditions at higher elevations, the lack of storm systems may slow snowpack growth across mountain ranges and reduce travel disruptions over mountain passes compared to a typical January stretch.
Northern Idaho, including Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint, Lewiston, and Moscow, is expected to see fewer precipitation events as well. Temperatures will run above average, with quieter weather dominating across the Panhandle. Valley locations may see patchy fog at times under stable conditions.
Major travel routes such as Interstate 84, Interstate 86, Interstate 90, and U.S. Highway 95 are expected to see generally favorable conditions during this period, with fewer weather-related slowdowns.
While the warmer and drier pattern may benefit travel and outdoor plans, longer-term impacts on snowpack and water supply will continue to be monitored if this trend persists. For now, the mild and dry setup is expected to hold into early next week, with any return to more active weather likely beyond this timeframe.
