More sub-freezing temperatures forecast for Boise area. Here’s how to prepare
“Sub-freezing temperatures” are returning to the Boise area, according to the National Weather Service.
The National Weather Service issued a freeze warning for Boise and other parts of Idaho that goes into effect late Friday, April 24.
Temperatures could dip as low as 26 degrees in some locations.
“An unseasonably cold and unsettled weather pattern will persist across the state through early next week,” the weather service said in its most recent Idaho state forecast discussion.
Here’s what to expect:
How long will freezing temperatures last?
According to the National Weather Service, the freeze warning will remain in effect from midnight Friday to 9 a.m. Saturday, April 25.
Affected areas include parts of south central and southwest Idaho and southeast Oregon.
In the Treasure Valley, impacted communities include Boise, Caldwell and Nampa.
Forecasters said area residents should “take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold.”
“Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing,” the weather service said in its warning.
What’s in the weather forecast for Boise area?
According to the National Weather Service’s current forecast for Boise, Friday was expected to be sunny with a high of 57 and wind gusts up to 25 mph.
Friday night should be mostly clear, with a low temperature around 33 degrees and wind gusts as high as 21 mph.
The Boise area could see “areas of frost” after 3 a.m. Saturday, the weather service said.
Otherwise, the day will be mostly sunny, with a high near 60 and a low around 36.
More sunshine is predicted on Sunday, which will have a high of 60 and a low of 36 degrees.
Temperatures begin to warm up on Monday.
Boise will have a high of 63 and a low around 40.
How can I protect my plants from frost?
“The primary concern for southern and central Idaho over the next several days will be a widespread hard freeze, with temperatures dropping well below freezing and threatening sensitive vegetation,” the weather service said in its state forecast discussion.
“The primary way to protect plants from frosts is to cover them with a blanket or row cover,” the Old Farmer’s Almanac said. “It’s worth the time to cover your crops because sometimes an early freeze is a freak incident, and there are many days of great weather to follow.”
Avoid letting materials rest directly on your plants by using “rocks, bricks and stakes,” the almanac said.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac advised using mulch, straw and leaf foliage to cover root vegetables and plants that grow close to the ground.
Can I prevent my pipes from freezing?
“When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, leading to increased pressure that can cause pipes to crack or burst,” Treasure Valley business Western said.
The company provides heating, air conditioning, electrical and plumbing services in Boise, Meridian and other cities.
To avoid damage to pipes, especially those outside your home, Western recommends taking these steps:
- Set your thermostat no lower than 55 degrees.
- Trickle warm water through your faucets. Keep cabinetry open to allow warm air flow near pipes.
- Use pipe insulation or heat tape to protect outdoor pipes.
- Protect water heaters, especially older ones, with an insulated blanket.
- Seal up any leaks or cracks.
- Make sure your garden hose is empty and turn off and cover your outdoor water spout.
- Ensure your garage door remains shut.
This story was originally published April 24, 2026 at 11:43 AM.
