Idaho Braces for Heavy Snow, Frigid Temperatures

Sawtooth Range and Trinity Mountain expected to see up to 1.5 feet of snowfall

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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A winter storm is set to bring significant snowfall and bitterly cold temperatures to Idaho this week. The Sawtooth Range and Trinity Mountain could see up to 1.5 feet of snow, while the central mountain ranges will receive at least a foot. However, the valleys are only expected to see sporadic, light snowfall. Bogus Basin ski resort is preparing for the influx of powder, with over a foot of fresh snow already on the slopes. Boise is also bracing for potential hazardous driving conditions due to the periodic snow showers and plunging temperatures.

Why it matters

This winter storm is a major weather event for Idaho, which could impact travel, outdoor recreation, and daily life for residents across the state. The heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures are a stark reminder of the power of Idaho's winter climate and the need for preparedness.

The details

According to National Weather Service meteorologist Jackson MacFarlane, the Sawtooth range and Trinity Mountain will receive the most snowfall, with Trinity Mountain potentially seeing up to 1.5 feet of snow. The central mountain ranges are expected to get at least a foot of snow. However, the valleys, including Boise, will only see sporadic, light snowfall, with accumulations of just two-tenths to four-tenths of an inch. The snow is expected to start falling overnight on Tuesday and continue into Wednesday morning, with the potential for hazardous driving conditions in Boise due to the periodic snow showers and plunging temperatures.

  • The snow is expected to start falling overnight on Tuesday, February 17, and continue into the morning of Wednesday, February 18.
  • Boise is expected to see the most snow showers between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 18.

The players

Jackson MacFarlane

A National Weather Service meteorologist who provided forecasts and details about the expected snowfall in Idaho.

Bogus Basin

A ski resort in Idaho that is preparing for the influx of powder, with over a foot of fresh snow already on the slopes.

Susan Saad

The community and customer relations director at Bogus Basin ski resort, who commented on the resort's excitement for the much-needed snow.

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What they’re saying

“Got the powder flu? We can fix that. See you on the snow!”

— Bogus Basin, Ski resort (Bogus Basin website)

“The skiing and riding conditions are great, and we're excited to welcome this much-needed snow to the mountain.”

— Susan Saad, Community and customer relations director (Idaho Statesman)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This winter storm is a stark reminder of the power of Idaho's winter climate and the need for residents and visitors to be prepared for hazardous driving conditions, potential power outages, and disruptions to daily life. The heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures are expected to have a significant impact on the state, particularly in the mountain regions.