Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – A more active storm pattern building across the Inland Northwest ahead of St. Patrick’s Day could bring accumulating mountain snow and periods of valley rain or wet snow across northern Idaho between March 11 and March 17.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, northern Idaho falls within a 40-50% probability zone for above-normal precipitation during the 8-14 day period. Temperatures are projected to trend near seasonal averages, meaning elevation and overnight cooling will determine whether precipitation falls as rain or snow.
In Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls, daytime highs in the upper 30s and 40s may support rain at times, with wet snow mixing in overnight as temperatures dip toward freezing. Along Interstate 90 from the Washington state line through Kellogg and into the Silver Valley, bursts of heavier precipitation could briefly reduce visibility and create slick stretches, especially near Fourth of July Pass and Lookout Pass. Higher elevations in Shoshone and Boundary counties are more likely to see steady accumulating snow with each passing system.
Travelers crossing mountain passes should prepare for changing road conditions, particularly during overnight and early morning hours. Even brief temperature drops can quickly impact pavement conditions. Additional updates are expected as the March 11-17 window approaches and storm timing becomes clearer.
