Wet and windy conditions headed through east Idaho this week

Meteorologist warns of rain, snow, and high winds across the region

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A storm system is expected to bring a mix of rain and snow to east Idaho starting early Tuesday and continuing through Wednesday afternoon. The National Weather Service says most of the Snake River Plain will see under a tenth of an inch of precipitation, while higher elevations could get up to 10 inches of snow. Strong winds gusting up to 50 mph are also forecast for the region during this time period.

Why it matters

The wet and windy weather could impact travel conditions, especially over mountain passes, and may cause power outages or other disruptions in the region. Residents are advised to monitor forecasts and road conditions closely.

The details

According to meteorologist John Keyes, the storm system is expected to hit the area after midnight on Tuesday and continue through Wednesday afternoon. Most of the population in the Interstate 15/U.S. Highway 20 corridor from Pocatello and American Falls to Rexburg and St. Anthony will see rain, with under a tenth of an inch of precipitation. Higher elevations like the Teton Valley, Island Park, Soda Springs, Bear Lake, Malad and McCammon could see a quarter- to half-inch of moisture, mostly in the form of rain. The backcountry areas and highest elevations above 7,500 feet may get 4 to 10 inches of snow.

  • The storm system is expected to hit the area after midnight on Tuesday and continue through Wednesday afternoon.
  • Wind gusts ranging from 30-50 mph are forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday across east Idaho.
  • Friday is also expected to be a windy day, potentially as windy as Wednesday.

The players

John Keyes

A meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Pocatello.

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What they’re saying

“'A good chunk of the Snake Plain is going to see under a tenth of an inch of precipitation.'”

— John Keyes, Meteorologist (EastIdahoNews.com)

“'Ninety percent of that will be rain. There might be a little bit of snow mixed in with that. Any major accumulating snow is going to be above 7,500 feet.'”

— John Keyes, Meteorologist (EastIdahoNews.com)

“'If you're headed over the passes on this side of the state during that two-day period — Pine Creek Pass will get about 3 to 5 inches, 2 to 5 inches if you're headed up into Montana going over Targhee or Raynolds Pass. Going over into Emigration Summit in the Bear River Range might get you 3 to 6 inches of snow.'”

— John Keyes, Meteorologist (EastIdahoNews.com)

What’s next

The latest road conditions and closures are available on the Idaho Transportation Department's Idaho 511 website. Live traffic cams and a complete seven-day forecast in your area are available on EastIdahoNews.com.

The takeaway

This storm system could significantly impact travel conditions across east Idaho, especially over mountain passes. Residents should closely monitor weather forecasts and road reports to plan their travel accordingly and prepare for potential power outages or other disruptions.