Wind advisory issued for Boise area with power outages possible. How to prepare
Wild wind gusts are expected to sweep through the Treasure Valley soon.
“A Pacific low-pressure system will bring widespread precipitation throughout the state Wednesday through Thursday,” the National Weather Service said in its latest Idaho state forecast discussion. “This pattern will also bring a return to near-normal temperatures and gusty afternoon winds through the end of the week.”
On Monday, May 11, the National Weather Service issued a wind advisory for parts of Idaho and Oregon.
Here’s how to prepare for strong winds:
How long will wind advisory last?
The wind advisory will remain in effect from noon to midnight on Wednesday, May 13, according to the National Weather Service.
West winds of 25 to 35 mph are expected, with gusts up to 55 mph, the weather service said.
Which Idaho cities will be impacted by wind gusts?
Portions of south-central and southwest Idaho and southeast Oregon will experience strong winds on Wednesday, the weather service said.
Impacted cities in Idaho incude Boise, Caldwell, Nampa and Twin Falls.
“Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects,” the weather service advised. “Tree limbs could be blown down, and power outages may result.”
Weather experts: Avoid travel during strong winds
“Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles,” the National Weather Service said in the advisory. “Use extra caution.”
“Traveling is probably one of the biggest concerns, especially if you’re in a high-profile vehicle,” Sophia Adams, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Boise office, told the Idaho Statesman in March. “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
