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

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Pocatello has issued a High Wind Warning and a Blowing Dust Warning for the Upper Snake River Plain. These alerts follow a Wind Advisory currently in effect for the region. The High Wind Warning (NWS code HWW) indicates a high probability of severe wind conditions that may cause significant property damage and life-threatening travel hazards.

Affected Areas

The warnings specifically cover the Upper Snake River Plain region in Idaho. This includes areas identified by the National Weather Service under the IDZ053 zone code.

What You Should Do

Residents are urged to secure or bring inside loose outdoor objects before the high winds begin. During the event, avoid being outside in forested areas or near trees, branches, and powerlines due to the risk of falling debris.

For those on the road:

• If you encounter blowing dust or sand, pull off the road as far as possible and put the vehicle in park.
• Turn all lights off and keep your foot off the brake pedal to avoid being hit by other drivers following your lights. Remember the safety phrase: “Pull Aside, Stay Alive.”
• Drivers of high-profile vehicles should consider delaying travel until the high winds subside.
• Individuals with respiratory problems should remain indoors until the storm passes to avoid dust inhalation.

Expected Conditions

• Current Wind Advisory (Friday): Southwest winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts reaching 50 mph.
• High Wind Warning (Saturday): West winds of 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 65 mph are expected.
• Blowing Dust Warning (Saturday): Widespread blowing dust will result in severely limited visibilities, potentially dropping to near zero.
• Potential Impacts: Isolated damage to trees, powerlines, signs, and outbuildings is expected, along with isolated power outages. Loose outdoor objects will be blown around, and driving will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.

Timeline

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