It seems like autumn just started, but some regions of Idaho are currently experiencing an early taste of winter thanks to a snowstorm that recently hit the Gem State. Parts of eastern and central Idaho received several inches of snow throughout Wednesday and they continue to experience after-effects of the storm which started earlier this week. Currently, record low temperatures are being observed throughout the state and Idahoans are bracing themselves for a chilly start to the weekend. Keep reading to learn all about this snow storm’s impact on the state and what we can expect next.
A large early-season snowstorm made its way through eastern Idaho earlier this week, starting on Tuesday evening. According to USA Today, areas all across the northern Rockies and northern Plains experienced as much as 12-inches of snow.
Although the brunt of this snow storm was experienced in states like Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado, the Gem State was definitely affected as well. Regions stretching from the Northern Panhandle all the way down to southeastern Idaho saw up to several inches of snow throughout Wednesday, and they continue to experience the storm's after effects.
In fact, temperatures observed on Thursday morning were some of the coldest ever reported for various regions across southern Idaho. For instance, Boise saw a low temperature of 23 degrees and Idaho Falls saw a low of 12 degrees! And to think it's only October...
Freezing temperatures are expected to continue through Friday. These chilly temperatures are definitely not unheard of around Idaho, but it's quite the surprise considering the time of year. The average low for October is usually around 35 degrees.
These record-breaking temperatures are a real downer for those who prefer winter to hold off for as long as possible, but they are even worse news for Idaho farmers. Many local farmers are currently scrambling as cold temperatures threaten onion, sugar beet, sweet corn seed, and potato crops.
All of these crops are sensitive to cold weather and could be destroyed if they aren't harvested in time. In general, it's expected that many farmers will lose some of their crops.
With the first taste of winter already here, it's important to use caution when going out and about. Wednesday's storm forced the closure of part of Interstate 15 (which has since reopened), and these freezing conditions may make driving more difficult in certain areas of the state.
Has your region of Idaho been affected by this week’s snowstorm? Let us know in the comments. For a deeper look at this winter’s predicted weather, check out this article about The Farmers Almanac Predictions For Idaho’s Winter 2020.
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