ITD encourages drivers to prepare for severe storm conditions across North and North Central Idaho

COEUR d'ALENE - The National Weather Service has issued a severe storm warning across the Inland Northwest, including North and North Central Idaho beginning Wednesday evening and continuing through Thursday morning. Forecasts indicate strong winds with gusts up to 60-70 mph across parts of the region, along with heavy snowfall in higher elevations.

Significant snowfall is expected in the mountains, with up to 2-3 feet of snow forecast overnight at Lookout Pass.

The Idaho Transportation Department has crews fully staffed and prepared across the region to respond quickly to the storm. Crews will prioritize snow removal in high-elevation areas and will address other roadway hazards such as fallen trees and debris as conditions allow.

Drivers should be aware that in areas where power lines run alongside highways, downed lines may temporarily delay roadway cleanup. ITD works closely with local power companies during storms, but for safety reasons utility crews must first address live power lines before ITD can remove trees or debris from the roadway.

Safety Reminders for Drivers

ITD urges the public to take precautions during this storm:

• Limit travel unless absolutely necessary. Fewer vehicles on the road help crews respond more quickly to critical incidents.
• Never drive over downed power lines. Treat all downed lines as energized and dangerous.
• Treat traffic signals as four-way stops if signals are impacted by wind or power outages.
• High winds pose a serious risk for high-profile vehicles, including commercial trucks, travel trailers, and RVs.
• If traveling over mountain passes, ensure vehicles are equipped with proper traction devices such as chains, and carry emergency supplies in case of road closures or extended delays.

Off the road, residents are also encouraged to be prepared at home by ensuring phones are fully charged and that they have essential supplies available.

Drivers are also reminded to only call 911 for true emergencies, not to report power outages or request power restoration updates.

"Our crews are ready to respond to whatever this storm brings," District Engineer Ryan Hawkins said. "The best thing the public can do is prepare ahead of time, limit travel when possible, and rest assured knowing our crews will be out there around the clock keeping people safe."

For updated road conditions throughout the storm, visit 511.idaho.gov.