Boise could be climate-change refuge, scientists say

Boise may be a safe haven for those looking to escape the effects of climate change in the next 25 years, according to some scientists.

The New York Times talked to several climate experts who pointed out that the Treasure Valley is one of the West's better bets in terms of avoiding a rising heat index and its associated dangers.

“If somebody pointed a gun at me and said, ‘Boise or Denver, choose one on a climate-related basis,’ I would choose Boise,” David W. Titley, a professor of meteorology at Penn State University, told the Times. “That would be pretty easy.”

Still, experts shared concerns over wildfires in the region, as well as the fires' potential threat to air quality.

This isn't the first time the Boise area has been singled out as a potential climate safe haven. Idaho Statesman environment reporter Rocky Barker has suggested that our area could be a "Noah's Ark" for water and energy markets, as well.

The New York Times story also suggested New York City, San Francisco and several Great Lakes cities as potential climate refuges, among others.

Nicole Blanchard: (208) 377-6410; @NMBlanchard

This story was originally published October 22, 2016 at 12:21 PM with the headline "Boise could be climate-change refuge, scientists say."