Winter Storm Watch posted for this weekend: FEB 17th-18th
A storm system is moving through Eastern Idaho and Western Wyoming this weekend, which is expected to deliver heavy mountain snow.
The National Weather Service in Pocatello has issued a Winter Storm Watch through Sunday morning. This Watch will most likely turn over to a Winter Storm Warning by Saturday. The storm will start on Saturday for the mountains and high country. The storm will then begin to drop snow into portions of the Snake River Plain by Saturday night into Sunday. Snake River Plain communities could pick up 1-3″ of new snowfall on Sunday into Monday, as temperatures drop behind a cold front.
WINTER STORM WATCH:
First Major Winter Storm for the New Year in Eastern Idaho…
A moisture-laden storm should arrive early Saturday morning, bringing heavy snow to elevations above 7000ft, and moderate snow above 6000ft. Even the Snake River plain will see at least some light to moderate snow, up to 3 inches or so in some locations. The storm will also possibly generate strong southwest to west wind of 25 to 35 mph. Winds of this power will drift and blow snow, making road clearing operations difficult at best, with temporary road closures possible. Travel will be hazardous with slippery roads and reduced visibilities in blowing snow, if traveling the high elevation highways and passes.
Upper Snake Highlands-
…WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM LATE TONIGHT THROUGH SUNDAY
MORNING ABOVE 6500 FEET…
* WHAT…Heavy snow possible. Plan on difficult travel conditions.
Tree branches could fall as well. Total snow above 6500 feet
amounts of 8 to 17 inches are possible. Below 6500 feet
elevation, possible snow fall amounts of 3 to 9 inches are
possible during this time. Wind in excess of 15 mph, at times
approaching 30 mph, will cause heavy drifting of snow with low
visibilities in blowing snow.
* WHERE…The upper Snake River Highlands, above 6500 feet
elevation.
* WHEN…From late tonight through Sunday morning.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Significant reductions in visibility are
possible. When combined with slippery roads, driving conditions
will be very hazardous. The heavy drifting snow will make
efforts to keep roads clear extremely difficult, which may mean
temporary road closures, even for main highways.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
A Winter Storm Watch means there is potential for significant
snow, sleet or ice accumulations that may impact travel. Continue
to monitor the latest forecasts.
