Are you ready for winter to arrive in the Gem State? We hope so, because this week is going to mark the official start of winter for much of Idaho. Winter storms have already started in the eastern region of the state, and the current forecast predicts a substantial winter storm will arrive just in time for Thanksgiving this week. You’ll want to be sure you’re prepared for the arrival of snow, especially if you plan on traveling for the holiday.
Say goodbye to autumn because winter is about to make quite the arrival in our state. Two winter storms already made an appearance since early last week, and another one is soon to be on the way!
If you live in the eastern region of the state, chances are you've already gotten an early taste of the winter season. Last week, various regions of East Idaho including the mountainous areas south of Pocatello and high elevation cities such as Montpelier and Lava Hot Springs were hit with the arrival of snow on Wednesday.
Although lower elevation cities like Pocatello, Idaho Falls, and Rexburg only saw perhaps a quarter-inch of snow from the Wednesday and Thursday storm, this definitely marked the official start of winter for many.
However, that is not the end of winter weather in East Idaho. Another storm is expected to pass through the region on Sunday and Monday, bringing more of that fluffy white stuff with it. And to top it all off, a THIRD storm is expected to pass through on Wednesday and Thursday.
This third storm system will sweep across the Pacific Northwest and reach across southern Idaho, including the Treasure Valley, early in the week. Idaho's Chief Meteorologist, Rick Lantz, predicts that the system will drop "several inches of snow" on Tuesday night and continue into Wednesday. The mountains could see more than a foot of snow.
If you consider yourself a powder hound, the arrival of snow is definitely good news! However, it's probably a less than welcome forecast if you plan on traveling for the Thanksgiving holiday. Holiday travel usually starts on Tuesday afternoon and stretches into Wednesday, so drivers will definitely want to prepared for any weather that they may come across.
Expect delays if you do plan on being on the roads during this week's storm. The snow may cause traffic congestion in metropolitan areas and cautious driving on the highways. Make sure your car is capable of driving in winter weather, pack a spare tire and/or battery, and most of all, be safe this Thanksgiving holiday.
What do you think? Are you excited for the winter storms, or are they putting a hamper on your holiday plans? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below. Meanwhile, you can start getting pumped for the new season with this list of 8 Awesome Places To Visit In Idaho During Winter.
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