Rain and thunderstorms pushing into the area through Saturday
Low pressure over Oregon is kicking up rain and thunderstorms across the region while pulling monsoonal moisture northward. That moisture will keep showers and storms in the forecast today, with occasional rain gradually winding down before the weekend. A marginal risk of severe storms means a few stronger storms could produce gusty winds, and outflow winds may be an issue even outside the heaviest rain.
Rainfall amounts will vary, but the eastern highlands could pick up around a half inch at best. The bigger concern today is the combination of lightning, brief heavy rain, and those pesky gusty winds that can suddenly blow out of a storm.
Thursday: Storms and showers throughout the day
High: 78° | Low tonight: 49° | Rain and storm chance: 80%
Thursday morning
Showers and thunderstorms are already moving this morning, so don't be surprised if your commute starts with wet roads, lightning, or a sudden gust of wind. The north wind will run 5–15 mph, but storms can produce stronger, more unpredictable wind gusts.
If you're heading to work, school, or getting the kids out the door, keep the rain gear handy. For those working outside, this is a day to watch the sky rather than rely solely on the clock. Lightning can arrive before the rain, and a storm that looks like it's passing nearby can still send out a gusty outflow.
Thursday afternoon
The atmosphere stays active through the afternoon, with an 80% chance of rain and thunderstorms. Low pressure over Oregon continues to help pull moisture northward, giving us plenty of fuel for showers and storms.
Temperatures climb to around 78°, but cloud cover, rain, and storm activity will make it feel cooler at times. Winds turn southwest and can gust to around 20 mph outside storms, while stronger gusts are possible near thunderstorms.
Rainfall will be hit or miss, but the eastern highlands could see up to around a half inch. Some areas may receive much less, while a heavier shower or storm could produce a quick downpour. If you're mowing, working in the yard, or planning an afternoon outside, keep an eye on the radar and have a place to get inside when thunder moves in.
Thursday evening
Storms and showers continue into the evening, so outdoor plans may need a little flexibility. A passing storm could bring lightning, a quick burst of rain, or a gusty wind that seems to come out of nowhere.
Temperatures ease through the 60s, and the evening becomes more comfortable once the heavier showers move through. If you're heading to a ballgame, working late, or sitting outside for dinner, keep the rain jacket close by.
Thursday overnight
Low: 49°
The weather remains unsettled overnight, with rain showers continuing while you dream of Friday. Some showers may be light and occasional, but the atmosphere stays moist enough for additional pockets of rain.
For early risers, expect a cool, damp start with temperatures falling to around 49°. Wet roads and reduced visibility in heavier showers could slow down the morning commute, so allow a little extra time if you're heading out before sunrise.
Friday: A few showers, then a cooler start to the weekend
High: 73° | Low Friday night: 43°
Friday starts with a slight chance of rain in the morning, followed by partly sunny skies. It won't be a complete washout, but the atmosphere is still unsettled, and there's a 50% chance of thunderstorms to kick off the weekend.
Temperatures reach around 73°, making it a comfortable day for errands, yard work, or getting ready for weekend plans. Still, a passing storm could interrupt outdoor activities, so keep an eye on the sky if you're spending time outside.
Friday night
Low: 43° | Thunderstorm chance: 50%
The chance of thunderstorms continues Friday night, with a 50% chance of storms and temperatures dropping to around 43°.
If you're camping, attending an outdoor event, or sitting around a fire pit, keep the radar handy and have a backup plan. A storm doesn't have to be severe to bring lightning, gusty winds, or a quick burst of rain.
Saturday: Lingering shower chances, then sunshine
High: 69° | Low Saturday night: 41°
Saturday starts with a lingering shower or storm chance, but the weather improves through the day. After about 3 PM, there's a 20% chance of a shower or thunderstorm, followed by more sunshine.
Highs near 69° make it a comfortable day for hiking, yard work, a drive through the mountains, or getting outside for weekend activities. A passing shower could still pop up, but the overall trend is toward improving weather.
Saturday night turns partly cloudy and cool, with lows around 41°. If you're camping or spending the evening outdoors, plan for a chilly night. Fall is definitely starting to make its presence known.
Sunday: Sunshine returns
High: 74°
Sunday looks like the day to get outside. Sunny skies and a high of 74° will make for a much nicer day across Eastern Idaho and Western Wyoming.
Whether you're hiking, working in the yard, taking a drive, or simply enjoying a day without checking the radar every hour, Sunday brings a welcome return to sunshine.
Monday: Warming back toward 80°
High: 78°
Monday starts the new workweek with sunny skies and a high near 78°. The warming trend continues, with temperatures climbing back toward 80° during the first three days of the new week.
After the rain and storms today and the lingering shower chances Friday and Saturday, the forecast turns much more comfortable heading into next week.
Extended outlook
| Day | Forecast | High / Low |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday | Showers and thunderstorms, gusty winds possible | 78° / 49° |
| Friday | Slight morning rain chance, partly sunny, 50% storm chance | 73° / 43° |
| Saturday | Lingering 20% shower/storm chance after 3 PM, then sunshine | 69° / 41° |
| Sunday | Sunny | 74° |
| Monday | Sunny, warming | 78° |
Bottom line: Today is the wettest and stormiest day, with lightning, gusty winds, and occasional heavy rain possible. Friday still has a few interruptions, Saturday improves, and by Sunday we're back to sunshine. Then temperatures climb toward 80° early next week.
Jeff Roper, First Alert Weather
