Sandpoint, Idaho – Travel across North Idaho could become hazardous beginning Tuesday as a developing winter storm is expected to bring heavy mountain snow, gusty winds, and reduced visibility, particularly across higher elevations of the Idaho Panhandle.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning for the Northern Panhandle and Central Panhandle Mountains, with accumulating snow and strong winds likely to impact major mountain routes.
Winter Storm Watch Details for North Idaho
Forecasters say the system has the potential to deliver significant snowfall above 3,000 feet, where conditions will be most dangerous.
Expected impacts include:
- 8 to 15 inches of snow possible in mountain zones
- 1 to 5 inches in lower elevations
- Wind gusts up to 35 mph, creating blowing snow
- Rapidly changing visibility during heavier snow bands
The combination of snow and wind could lead to near-whiteout conditions at times, especially overnight Tuesday into early Wednesday.
Most Impacted Mountain Passes and Roads
The most significant travel disruptions are expected along higher-elevation highways and passes, including:
- Lookout Pass
- Schweitzer Mountain Road
- Dobson Pass
- Fourth of July Pass
These routes are frequently affected by winter storms and may experience snow-packed roads, drifting snow, and temporary closures if conditions worsen.
Communities That Could See Difficult Travel
Several North Idaho communities may experience periods of hazardous driving, especially during peak snowfall:
- Sandpoint
- Priest River
- Kellogg
- Wallace
- Mullan
- Clark Fork
While snowfall totals may vary by elevation, even modest accumulation combined with gusty winds can make travel unpredictable.
Lower Elevations Still Face Risks
Areas such as Bonners Ferry are expected to receive lighter snowfall totals, but officials warn that slick roads, freezing temperatures, and sudden visibility drops remain possible.
Even brief bursts of snow can quickly change road conditions, particularly during evening and early morning hours when temperatures are colder.
Travel Safety and Preparedness Advice
The Idaho Transportation Department is expected to monitor and maintain mountain routes, but drivers should be prepared for rapid deterioration in conditions.
Officials recommend:
- Avoiding unnecessary mountain travel during the storm
- Carrying tire chains, blankets, food, and water
- Allowing extra time for travel
- Checking road conditions before departure
- Keeping fuel tanks at least half full
Motorists crossing mountain passes should be prepared for delays or sudden closures if snowfall intensifies.
Forecast Confidence Increasing
Meteorologists say confidence is growing that this storm will produce high-impact winter conditions in the mountains. If snowfall projections hold, the Winter Storm Watch could be upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning as the system approaches.
Additional updates and refinements to snowfall totals are expected later today as forecasters gain better resolution on the storm’s track and intensity.
Conclusion
With heavy snow, gusty winds, and hazardous travel conditions likely across North Idaho’s mountain corridors, residents and travelers are urged to stay alert, plan ahead, and monitor forecasts closely through Wednesday morning.
If you live in or plan to travel through the affected areas, share how you’re preparing for the storm in the comments below.
