5/12/2009
High winds close three highways in eastern Idaho
RIGBY - High winds have now closed Idaho 33 west of Mud Lake as well as Interstate 15 between Idaho Falls and Roberts and U.S. 20 between Ashton and the top of the Ashton Hill, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced.
Winds up to 62 mph have created dust storms in areas with bare fields, reducing visibility to near zero. ITD estimates roads will reopen late tonight, when winds are expected to subside.
At 4:15 p.m., a lead maintenance worker on the Ashton Hill said the situation is fluctuating from "bad to worse and then back to bad." He said winds are picking up.
The National Weather Service forecasts sustained winds in the region of 35 to 40 mph this afternoon and evening, with gusts of up to 60 mph.
Traffic is being detoured around road closures on Idaho 33 and I-15, but not around the road closure on U.S. 20, since trees have reportedly fallen on the nearby detour route of Mesa Falls Scenic Byway.
Motorists in the Island Park area could travel to West Yellowstone and through the national park to Jackson and then back to U.S. 20 on Idaho 33 through Teton Valley and Madison County to bypass the closure, although this is a 150-mile detour. So far, Idaho 33 between Wyoming and Sugar City is open.
High winds create dangerous conditions, so motorists who must drive in them should proceed with care.
For current highway and weather conditions throughout the state, access the Idaho Traveler Services Web site at 511.idaho.gov or call 5-1-1 from phones within Idaho. Reports are updated daily or whenever conditions change on Idaho highways.