NWS Issues Strong Thunderstorm Warning for Oakley Area in Southern Idaho
The National Weather Service in Pocatello issued a special weather statement Sunday afternoon after Doppler radar detected a strong thunderstorm near Oakley Reservoir in southern Idaho, moving northeast at approximately 40 mph.
The primary hazards associated with the storm include wind gusts exceeding 35 mph and hail up to half an inch in diameter. Gusty winds could snap tree limbs and send unsecured outdoor objects airborne, while the hail poses a risk of minor damage to items left outside.
Communities in the storm’s path include Oakley, Declo, Albion, Elba, Mt. Harrison, and the City of Rocks area. Residents and visitors in those locations were urged to move indoors until the storm passes.
Southern Idaho can see rapidly developing thunderstorms during late spring and early summer. Residents across the region — including those enjoying outdoor activities like those highlighted in the ongoing Henry’s Lake hybrid trout stocking study — should monitor weather conditions closely this time of year.