High wind watch issued for Treasure Valley. How strong will gusts get?
The winds are about to pick up in Boise and the Treasure Valley.
“An atmospheric river from the Pacific is forecast to persist through Saturday, bringing moderate to heavy precipitation to the central and northern mountains of the state,” the National Weather Service said in its latest Idaho state forecast discussion. “High winds are possible Saturday as a cold front moves through, with valley rain and mountain snow.”
On Friday, the National Weather Service issued a high winds watch for parts of south-central and Southwest Idaho.
Winds could reach 30 to 40 mph at times on Saturday, with gusts up to 60 mph possible, the weather service said.
Parts of Oregon and Nevada area also expected to see strong winds.
Here’s how to prepare for windy weather:
How long will high wind watch be in effect?
According to the weather service, the high wind watch will be in effect from Saturday afternoon through Saturday evening in much of Idaho.
“Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines,” the weather service said in its watch. “Widespread power outages are possible.”
Which Idaho cities will be affected?
Idaho communities that could be impacted by high winds include the city of Boise and the upper Treasure Valley, including parts of Meridian and Garden City, according to Sophia Adams, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Boise office.
High winds could also affect Fairfield and the Camas Prairie, Adams said, as well as the Magic Valley, Twin Falls, Jerome, the Owyhee Mountains and Southwest Highlands.
According to a weather service map, the high wind watch covers Ada, Camas, Gooding, Jerome, Owyhee and Twin Falls counties, plus the southern area of Elmore County.
“We have confidence that we’ll see fairly strong wind gusts, generally around 50 to 58 mph over the region,” Adams told the Idaho Statesman via phone. “We are expecting sustained winds anywhere from 30 to 40 mph from the west.”
The meteorologist noted that wind speeds will increase between noon and 9 p.m. on Saturday.
Weather experts: Avoid travel during strong winds
During the wind storm, “travel could be difficult,” the National Weather Service said.
“Traveling is probably one of the biggest concerns, especially if you’re in a high-profile vehicle,” Adams told the Statesman. “Maybe reconsider travel if you’re traveling on those north-south highways.”
Motorists should be cautious of Idaho 93, U.S. 95 and even stretches of Idaho 55 during high winds, the meteorologist said.
Visibility may be impacted from blowing dust in drier areas, Adams said.
High-speed gusts can overturn vehicles, so you should use caution on the road, according to the Idaho Office of Emergency Management.
“If you are driving, stop at a sturdy building to take shelter,” the state agency said on its website. “Avoid parking or seeking shelter under a freeway overpass or trees. If possible, stay off the roads and avoid unnecessary travel.”
What should I do to prepare for high-speed winds?
According to Adams, you should prepare for high-speed winds ahead of time by securing outdoor furniture, garbage bins and tools.
“High winds can cause considerable damage,” the Idaho Office of Emergency Management said. “Unsecured objects, such as lawn furniture or trash cans, can become dangerous projectiles.”
You should tie those items down or bring them inside, the state agency said.
“Another impact is tree branches coming down,” Adams told the Statesman. “That can also impact power outages as well.”
You should “trim tree branches away from your house and power lines” to avoid damage from falling limbs, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management said. “If you come across downed power lines, report them to your utility company immediately.”
Report power outages to Idaho Power by calling 800-488-6151.
What should be in my power outage kit?
Be prepared with a power outage kit at the ready, according to Idaho Power.
Here’s what to include:
- Battery-operated flashlights, radio and clock
- Matches
- Blankets
- Bottled water
- Non-perishable food
- Non-electric can opener
- First-aid kit and prescriptions
- Battery or solar-powered chargers
- A block of ice for the freezer
- Extra batteries
Households with babies and pets should prepare formula, diapers and food for emergency conditions as well, according to Idaho Power.
This story was originally published March 13, 2026 at 1:05 PM.
