LIVE UPDATES: 80 mph winds, wicked weather sweeps across Eastern Idaho
EASTERN IDAHO — "Wicked" weather is wreaking havoc across the region today as a line of powerful thunderstorms sweeps through. Local News 8 is tracking this storm in real-time and will provide continuous live updates as new reports of damage and outages come in.
With wind gusts clocked at up to and above 80 mph, we are seeing widespread reports of structural damage and utility failures.
I-15 closed near Bannock/Oneida County Line
All northbound lanes of I-15 are currently blocked at the Bannock/Oneida County line following a major crash near milepost 28. According to Idaho 511, the incident began around 1:27 PM.
Local drivers have reported multiple overturned semi-trucks south of McCammon, with photos showing the impact to the area.
Butte County
Severe winds have left a trail of damage in Howe, Idaho, with the local community center bearing the brunt of the storm. Resident Kevin Smith reports that two power poles were impacted and a transformer was knocked to the ground at the facility. He says utility crews are currently on-site and are expected to continue repairs through midnight.
The wind also damaged two local churches: photos show significant roofing torn from the LDS church building and a large tree downed at the Little Lost River Bible Church.
I-84 reopens after Semis blown over by severe winds
Both directions of Interstate 84 were closed between mile markers 230 and 240 due to two separate semi-truck rollovers caused by high winds. The road reopened around 1 p.m. Wednesday.
The Cassia County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the closure via Facebook.
Bingham County: Travel Advisory/Downed Power Lines
Bingham County Sheriff's Office has issued a travel advisory due to the extreme weather sweeping through the area, warning drivers to avoid traveling west of Aberdeen due to "multiple power lines down all over the roads." The Power Company and officers are on the scene, and BCSO says they are addressing the issue as best as they can.
Pocatello: Downed Lines and Fallen Trees
Pocatello Police are currently responding to a surge of calls involving fallen trees and downed power lines. Authorities are urging all residents to exercise extreme caution when leaving their homes, as hazards may be obscured by debris.
Police and Fire personnel are working to reopen roads and secure affected areas while utilities work to shut off power to impacted lines.
If you see a downed power line, Police say assume it is live and follow these safety tips.
- Stay at least 30 feet away from the line and anything touching it.
- Do not attempt to move the line or objects around it.
- Avoid driving over or stepping near water that may be energized.
- If a powerline falls on your vehicle, stay inside until emergency personnel arrive.
- Call 911 or the utility company to report downed lines immediately.
Regional: Power Outages
Multiple power outages are currently affecting the region. You can monitor the restoration progress via the official maps below:
Bingham County: Severe Weather Warning Issued
The Bannock County Sheriff's Office has issued an alert regarding the hazard of 70 mph wind gusts and a line of severe thunderstorms moving southeast. Authorities are warning of potential damage to trees, mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings in the region.
This is a developing story. Refresh this page for the latest weather alerts, road closures, and power restoration timelines.
