A National Weather Service winter weather advisory is in effect for parts of central Idaho as snow is expected to increase across higher elevations from Saturday evening through Sunday. Forecasters are calling for 4 to 10 inches of snow above 7,000 feet, with additional accumulation possible above pass level.
The advisory issued by the NWS office in Pocatello runs from 8 p.m. Saturday to 7 p.m. Sunday. It covers the Sun Valley region, the Big Lost Highlands and the Copper Basin, including Galena Pass. Ketchum, Sun Valley, Galena and the Copper Basin are within the advisory area.
Snow and wind expected at higher elevations
Snowfall is expected to be concentrated above 7,000 feet, while winds could produce gusts of up to 35 mph. The combination of accumulating snow, wind and low temperatures is expected to create slippery road conditions in the advisory area, particularly along State Highway 75 as it crosses Galena Summit north of Sun Valley.
The Pocatello office has extended the advisory once as the winter system approaches. Higher totals are possible above the pass itself, where changing conditions can make travel difficult even when lower-elevation roads remain comparatively clear.
- Advisory period: 8 p.m. Saturday through 7 p.m. Sunday
- Expected snowfall: 4 to 10 inches above 7,000 feet
- Wind: Gusts up to 35 mph
- Primary corridor: State Highway 75 over Galena Summit
Transportation officials urge caution
The Idaho Transportation Department advises drivers to slow down on wet or icy roads, allow more distance for stopping and avoid cruise control, lane-keeping systems and other automated driving features in those conditions. The guidance also calls for gentle braking and steering into a skid when necessary.
Idaho’s seasonal rules allow drivers to use studded tires on public highways from Oct. 1 through April 30. The state permits chains at any time and allows other traction devices when they provide at least the same grip as chains under the conditions. Tires with retractable studs may be used year-round when the studs retract to the wear bar, although the studs may be deployed only during the seasonal period.
Galena Summit has experienced major snow-related travel disruptions in the past. During a March storm, a slide buried portions of the highway under snow as deep as 20 feet in some places, and Idaho Transportation Department crews worked for 31 consecutive hours to clear the route, according to KTVB.
