Blowing Dust and High Wind Warnings Issued for Upper Snake River Plain

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Pocatello has issued a series of weather alerts for the Upper Snake River Plain, including a Blowing Dust Warning, a High Wind Warning, and a Wind Advisory. These alerts have been issued due to expected high-velocity winds and significantly reduced visibility that may create life-threatening conditions.

Affected Areas

The alerts specifically cover the Upper Snake River Plain in Idaho.

Expected Conditions

Weather conditions are expected to escalate over the next 36 hours:

• Today (Friday): Southwest winds of 25 to 35 mph are expected, with gusts reaching up to 50 mph.
• Saturday: West winds will increase to between 35 and 45 mph, with gusts reaching up to 65 mph.
• Blowing Dust: Widespread blowing dust is expected on Saturday afternoon, which will severely limit visibility.
• Impacts: Travel will be dangerous and possibly life-threatening due to near-zero visibility. High-profile vehicles will find travel difficult. Residents should expect isolated damage to trees, powerlines, signs, and outbuildings, as well as potential power outages. Loose outdoor objects will be displaced by the wind.

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected area are advised to take the following precautions:

• Visibility Hazards: If you encounter blowing dust on the roadway, pull off the road as far as possible and put your vehicle in park. Turn your lights all the way off and keep your foot off the brake pedal. Remember the safety phrase: “Pull Aside, Stay Alive.”
• Health Precautions: Persons with respiratory problems should make preparations to stay indoors until the storm passes.
• Property Safety: Secure or bring inside loose outdoor objects before the high winds begin.
• General Safety: During high winds, avoid being outside in forested areas or around trees, branches, and powerlines.
• Driving: Keep both hands firmly on the steering wheel. Drivers of high-profile vehicles should consider delaying travel until conditions improve.

Timeline

• Wind Advisory: In effect until 9:00 PM MDT Friday evening, March 13.
• High Wind Warning: In effect from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM MDT Saturday, March 14.
• Blowing Dust Warning: In effect from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM MDT Saturday, March 14.