While the full effect of the winter storm that created chaos across the  country over the weekend did not reach Oneida County, the wind and snowfall were significant enough that many businesses and services were closed as a result, and the Sheriff’s Office and ISP advised travelers to avoid the roadways.  Nevertheless, a large number of slide-offs and accidents were reported up and down the I-15, with the sheriff’s dispatch listing numerous responses to slide-offs and disabled vehicles over the weekend.  Whiteout conditions, combined with high winds, created a dangerous driving environment.  In addition, the strong winds resulted in some structure damage throughout the county.  Luckily, no serious injuries were reported as a result.

This week began with below zero temperatures, and while those should moderate over the upcoming week, more snow is included in the forecast for the middle of the week and weekend.  Temperatures on Monday and Tuesday of this week reached as low as -10 in some areas, with highs in the low teens.  Snowfall is expected on Wednesday into Thursday, which should provide cloud cover to help moderate the extreme lows.  However, there is also a chance of freezing rain mixed with snow for the weekend.  The combination of the two is likely to create dangerous driving and travel conditions from the early morning hours of Saturday through the beginning of next week. 

The rare Blizzard warning that was put into place last week has been decreased to a Winter Weather Advisory for Oneida county, though a Wind Chill Warning was still in effect at as of press time in the surrounding areas of Bannock, Caribou, Bear Lake, Teton, and Power counties.  The warning indicates that potential threats from extreme cold are significant, and residents should take precautions to mitigate their personal exposure.  The National Weather Service advises people to dress warmly in layers, limit time spent outside as much as possible, watch for warning signs of frostbite and early hypothermia, and prepare for any unexpected power loss.  While unlikely, grid networks can sometimes temporarily fail as a result of severe weather and demand, so blankets, extra clothing, light sources such as candles and flashlights, generators, and alternative heat sources are suggested.  

In extreme cold, it is also recommended to leave a trickle of water running through any pipes that are exposed directly to outdoor conditions.  The running water helps prevent pipes becoming frozen and bursting, which can be both expensive and difficult to have repaired in the middle of winter.  At temperatures below 20 degrees, pipes which are not insulated against the cold can become frozen within as little as twelve hours.

State officials also remind residents to make sure that their pets and other animals are kept warm and safe in these conditions.  Indoor pets can still be affected by lower temperatures inside, and need suitable bedding and sources of warmth.  Pet owners are warned against leaving any pets outside without an enclosed and warmed structure to find shelter in, regardless of their species or breed.  People are also encouraged to be aware that cats can often find shelter in cars, where residual engine warmth can create an attractive place for them to rest in the wheel well or engine area.  Allowing the car to warm up can provide enough warning for the animal to move, though lifting the hood to check the engine for any unintentional hitchhikers is also recommended.

Most modern cars will fully lubricate the engine within a few minutes of running, and will warm up fastest when driving.  It is always a good idea to check oil, wiper fluid, and anti-freeze levels every few days during extreme cold in order to ensure continued smooth operation.  Travelers are also advised to keep an emergency kit in the vehicle in case of any accident or injury.  Blankets, food, water, and a snow shovel can also be critical in the event of a stranding.  Portable phone chargers (a USB device that generally holds two full phone charges) can be a life saver in situations where a car charger is not a good option.  Cat litter is often used to create traction on snow or ice for stranded vehicles, though its benefits are temporary as the material quickly becomes waterlogged.  Commercial sandbox sand is recommended by experts as a better solution.  There are also retail products made from crushed volcanic rock that are also reported to be more effective than litter.  

Tires are another important aspect of winter driving safety.  While chains are most effective in severe snow and ice conditions, studded tires are significantly better than standard all-season radials.  All tires should be checked for proper inflation, as rapid changes in temperature can cause fluctuations in inflation levels.  Road conditions can be checked at 511.idaho.gov before trips for the latest conditions and any accompanying advisories or warnings.  

Motorists are also advised to provide clearance and right of way for snow plow vehicles.  Last year in Idaho, seventeen vehicles were reported to have run into snow plows as a result of overly aggressive driving in dangerous conditions.  In whiteout conditions, use hazard lights to provide more visibility to other drivers on the road, exercise caution, and if possible follow a snowplow or other large vehicle at a low speed and safe distance.  

Any motorist facing an emergency during the weather can contact the sheriff’s office at 208-766-221, or through the 911 system in the case of immediate danger.