Hot, windy conditions and possible lightning prompt warning for Boise area

The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for the Boise area from 3 p.m. Wednesday to midnight as scattered thunderstorms and gusty winds threaten to ignite and rapidly spread new fires.

National Weather Service forecasters predict a 20% chance that storms will develop after 3 p.m., with lightning possible alongside winds of 30 to 55 mph. Boise’s high is expected near 97 degrees with sunny skies before storm chances increase late in the day, according to the National Weather Service.

The red flag warning includes areas in west-central Idaho and the Boise mountains, where dry brush could quickly ignite and spread fire in windy, unstable conditions.

Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, secure loose items and be prepared to report any smoke or flames immediately.

Wednesday evening, storms may linger before midnight with lows in the mid-60s. Winds are expected to ease overnight.

The fire weather threat is expected to subside Thursday but hot, dry conditions will continue across the region for the rest of the week.

This story was originally published July 9, 2025 at 11:12 AM.