1/28/2008
Severe winter storm closes 10 state highways
RIGBY - A severe winter storm in eastern and southern Idaho prompted the closure today of 10 state highways, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced.
Reduced visibility caused by blowing and drifting snow resulted in the closure of some routes, while slick surfaces caused by snow and ice accumulations prompted the closure of others.
Routes affected are Interstate 15, I-84, Idaho 33, Idaho 28, Idaho 46, Idaho 32, Idaho 22, and Idaho 21. Three segments of U.S. 20 and two segments of U.S. 26 also are closed. High winds caused whiteouts on several routes. Snowplow operators reported this morning they haven't seen driving conditions this bad in recent years.
Winds gusting up to 30 mph blew throughout the night, with rain and snow falling intermittently. ITD closed highways throughout the morning, as conditions worsened. There is no estimate of when routes will reopen. The forecast is for continued winds and precipitation.
ITD encourages motorists to avoid traveling in eastern Idaho today if possible.
For current highway and weather conditions throughout the state, access the Idaho Traveler Services Web site at 511.idaho.gov or dial 5-1-1 from phones within Idaho and from cell phones in Idaho. The toll-free number for Idaho's 511 Traveler Services system is (888) 432-7623. Reports are updated as conditions change on Idaho highways.