As winds pick up across southwest Idaho, the National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the Boise area.
Parts of Southwest Idaho, including Ada County, are expected to see “strong thunderstorms” with powerful wind gusts on Thursday, the weather service said.
Wind gusts up to 70 mph are possible, the weather service said in an X post.
“A couple tornadoes” are also possible, the federal agency said, along with “ping pong-sized hail” in some areas.
Here’s what you should know:
Sunflowers blow in the high winds during a storm over the Boise area in this 2023 photograph. Sarah A. Miller [email protected]
Thunder, wind gusts, rain and hail forecast in Idaho
“Strong to severe thunderstorms possible over the western and northern panhandle of the state on (Thursday), especially near Grangeville and Lewiston area,” the weather service said in the latest Idaho state forecast discussion. “Damaging winds and large hail (are) possible with the storms today.”
Strong gusts of winds will be accompanied by bursts of “brief heavy rain” and “nickel- to quarter-size hail,” the weather service warned.
Severe thunderstorm watch issued in Ada and Canyon counties
The severe thunderstorm watch will remain in effect until 4 p.m. Thursday for Ada County as well as parts of Owyhee, Canyon and Elmore.
The weather service also issued a special weather statement for the Treasure Valley.
“Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects,” the weather service said. “Areas of blowing dust (are) reducing visibility.
“For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building,” the weather service said.
How can I best prepare for strong winds?
During thunderstorms, find shelter in a “safe, sturdy building away from windows and doors,” the Idaho Office of Emergency Management said.
If thunder and lightning are frequent, don’t use electronics or running water.
Make sure any loose outdoor objects are secured or brought inside.
If you find yourself stuck on the road during severe thunderstorm conditions, the management office advises drivers to proceed with caution or even “stop at a safe location” if wind speeds get too strong.
Don’t drive into flooded areas and avoid power lines, trees and overpasses during storms.
“Never drive through flooded roads,” state emergency management officials said. “Just six inches of water can stall a car, and one foot can carry it away.”
A rare Idaho tornado captutred near Pocatello in this photo from 2023. There is a chance for tornados under the severe thunderstorm watch. Photo via @NWSPocatello
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This story was originally published May 28, 2026 at 3:37 PM.
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