3/6/2014
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Large avalanche could mean continued closure of Idaho 21 section through the weekend
BOISE COUNTY - A large avalanche in the 12-mile stretch of Idaho 21 between the Grandjean Junction and Banner Summit this afternoon (Thursday, March 6) will likely cause the highway to remain closed through the weekend as crews clean up snow and debris carried in the slide.
This section of highway has been closed since Monday for an avalanche threat, and has been closed several previous times this winter due to slides.
The large slide came down in the closed highway area, ensuring safety for vehicles and travelers kept out of the area by avalanche closure gates.
Drivers are encouraged to find an alternate route during this extended closure. Click here for a route map.
The area has
experienced more than 75 slides since the beginning of the avalanche season. More than 30 avalanches have reached the highway.
The notorious "Avalanche Alley"
section between the Grandjean Junction turnoff and Banner Summit is home
to approximately 60 avalanche chutes and 90 percent of the avalanches in the
state that affect highways.
For the latest highway and weather conditions, call Idaho Traveler Services at 5-1-1. For online updates, visit the website at 511.idaho.gov. Telephone and Web reports are available 24 hours a day and are updated as conditions change.