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Idaho Transportation
Department
Office of Communications
P.O. Box 7129
Boise, ID 83707
208.334.8005
Fax: 208.334.8563

 



Winter conditions continue to challenge travelers

Severe winter weather, snowfall and high winds, continued to make travel difficult throughout much of Idaho this week. The Idaho Transportation Department’s 511 Traveler Services system regularly indicated as many as a dozen highways, from Lewiston and Moscow to Montpelier were closed because of hazardous conditions.

ITD and the Idaho State Police encouraged motorists to avoid travel on highways that have received continual snowfall and are susceptible to high winds, blowing snow and low visibility

The Sun Valley area, while offering an abundance of snow for skiers, was virtually cut off from all outside access Friday (Feb, 8). The only highway open to travelers was from the east.

Regular highway closures reported included:

  • U.S. 95 between Lewiston and Moscow
  • U.S. 95 between Whitebird and Cottonwood
  • U.S. 12 between Lowell and Lolo Pass
  • U.S. 21 from the Grandjean Junction to Banner Summit
  • U.S. 20/26 from Carey to Arco
  • U.S. 20 between the junction of Idaho 22 and Idaho 33
  • Interstate 86 from the junction of I-84 to Chubbuck
  • U.S. 30 between Soda Springs and Montpelier
  • Idaho 33 between Newdale and Tetonia
  • Idaho 32 from Ashton to Tetonia
  • Idaho 51 from Riddle to Grasmere near the Idaho-Nevada state line

Many of the routes have been intermittently closed the past two weeks because of blowing and drifting snow. Closures and openings occur with little advance notice because of rapidly changing conditions.

Travelers are encouraged to check the 511 Traveler Services Web site (511.idaho.gov) or dial the phone system 5-1-1 for the latest closures and highway conditions. Reports are updated twice daily during the week, once each day on weekends, and anytime during the interim that conditions change.

To access the telephone system from areas near the Idaho border or from other states, motorists can call toll-free, (888) 432-7623.

Photo: A trio of snow plows work to clear Interstate 15 in District 5.

Published 2-8-8