If you haven’t broken out your warmest winter gear yet, now’s the time. This week, Boise will be facing dangerously cold temperatures, cloudy skies, and a dose of afternoon snow. From freezing mornings to chilly nights, residents are being warned to prepare for a week that will test their winter endurance.
With snow expected to cause slick conditions midweek, it’s important to plan ahead—especially if you’re commuting. Here’s a detailed look at what’s coming and how you can stay ahead of the cold.
Tuesday, February 11 — Clear Skies, But Freezing Cold
Today’s skies will clear up, bringing a bit of sunshine, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s warm. The high will barely reach 27°F (-3°C), and when the sun dips, temperatures will plunge to 5°F (-15°C) overnight.
This is the kind of cold that bites through layers, so make sure you’re bundled up with thick coats, gloves, and scarves. Frostbite can occur quickly in these temperatures if skin is exposed for too long.
Wednesday, February 12 — Cold and Cloudy
Wednesday won’t bring much relief. Expect mostly cloudy skies and a high of just 25°F (-4°C). Temperatures will dip to around 11°F (-12°C) in the evening, so you’ll want to keep your winter coat close by.
Although it will be dry, the extreme cold means you should take precautions if you’re spending time outdoors. Keep an eye on local alerts, especially for wind chill updates.
Thursday, February 13 — Snow Moves In by Afternoon
By Thursday, a shift in the weather will bring cloudy skies and a chance of snow in the afternoon. Snow accumulations will likely be light, but even a light dusting can make roads slippery. Temperatures will hover near 35°F (2°C) during the day and drop to 26°F (-3°C) at night.
The evening commute could be tricky, so plan ahead. Bridges and overpasses are often the first areas to freeze, so drive carefully and leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles.
Friday, February 14 — Cloudy with Chilly Temperatures
Valentine’s Day in Boise won’t be romantic for those hoping for warmer weather. The skies will be mostly cloudy, and the high will reach about 40°F (5°C). While there’s no significant precipitation expected, it’s still going to feel cold. Nighttime temperatures will drop to 24°F (-5°C), so consider cozy indoor plans if you’re celebrating.
Saturday, February 15 — A Cloudy, Chilly Weekend
The weekend kicks off with cloudy skies and another cold day. Saturday’s high will be around 41°F (5°C), and the low will sit near 31°F (-1°C). No major weather events are expected, but don’t let the calm skies fool you—this is still jacket weather.
Sunday, February 16 — Rain and Drizzle Arrive
Sunday will bring some relief from the extreme cold, but it won’t be dry. Temperatures will climb to a high of 43°F (6°C) with rain and drizzle expected throughout the day. The evening will stay relatively mild with a low of 36°F (2°C).
While the rain won’t be heavy, it could still make conditions slick. Be cautious if you’re traveling, and watch for water pooling on roads and sidewalks.
How to Stay Safe This Week
- Dress Warmly: With temperatures as low as 5°F (-15°C), frostbite is a real risk. Wear layers, hats, gloves, and scarves to cover exposed skin.
- Be Cautious on the Roads: Thursday’s light snow could cause slippery spots, especially on bridges, overpasses, and hills. Drive slowly and give yourself extra time to get to your destination.
- Protect Vulnerable Individuals: Check on elderly neighbors or anyone with limited mobility to make sure they have access to heating and warm clothing.
- Keep Pets Safe: Bring pets indoors during extreme cold, and ensure outdoor animals have warm, sheltered areas.
Final Thoughts: Winter Isn’t Letting Up
This week’s bitter cold and snow remind us that winter is still in full swing. If you’re planning to be outdoors, dress warmly and limit your exposure to the freezing air. And with snow expected on Thursday and rain by Sunday, Boise residents should be ready for rapidly changing road conditions.
