We all know the age-old saying, “April showers bring May flowers.” With spring officially here, Idaho may experience more unpredictable – and sometimes dangerous – weather. Spring storms can bring heavy rain, hail, thunderstorms, flooding, and more. Some of these weather patterns can also lead to power outages, making preparedness essential.

The Idaho Office of Emergency Management encourages Idahoans to take steps now to stay safe and protect their loved ones when severe weather strikes.

What is Severe Weather?

Severe weather refers to atmospheric disturbances that produce hazardous conditions, including strong winds, large hail, thunderstorms, tornadoes, heavy rain, snow, freezing rain, or a combination of these elements.

• Severe Thunderstorms: Storms that produce hail one inch or larger in diameter or wind gusts over 58 mph. Hail this size can damage vehicles, roofs, and crops, while strong winds can break large branches, knock over trees, and cause structural damage. Some severe thunderstorms can produce hail larger than softballs or winds exceeding 100 mph.
• Hail: Solid ice that forms inside thunderstorm updrafts. Hail can damage homes, vehicles, aircraft, and crops, and can be dangerous to people and livestock.
• High Winds: These can occur with severe thunderstorms, strong weather systems, or as winds flow down mountain slopes. Sustained winds of 40–50 mph can cause isolated damage, while higher speeds can result in widespread destruction.
• Flooding: One of the most common and costly natural disasters, flooding can happen anywhere. Whether caused by overflowing rivers, heavy rainfall, or rapid snowmelt, even a few inches of water can cause severe damage to homes and pose serious risks to life.
• Tornadoes: A violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can completely destroy well-built structures, uproot trees, and turn objects into deadly projectiles. While rare, Idaho has experienced tornadoes triggered by high winds and thunderstorms.

How to Stay Safe During These Hazards

Thunder and Lighting Storms

• Secure or bring in outdoor items and trim trees near your home.
• When thunder roars, go indoors. If you see lightning or hear thunder, seek shelter inside a sturdy building. Stay away from windows and avoid using running water or electronics.
• If shelter isn’t available, a vehicle with a metal roof (turned off, with windows closed) is safer than remaining outside.

Heavy Rain, Flood, and Hail

• Understand your flood risk. Visit the Idaho Map to find your flood zone.

• Drive with caution. Slow down to avoid hydroplaning or sliding on hail-covered streets.
• Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Never drive through flooded roads – just six inches of water can stall a car, and one foot can carry it away.
• Follow official instructions. Evacuate if directed and obey road closures and caution signs.

High Winds

• Seek shelter in a safe, sturdy building and stay away from windows and doors.
• If driving, stop at a safe location. Do not park under overpasses, trees, or power lines.
• Avoid downed power lines and anything that may be in contact with them.

Tornadoes

• The safest place during a tornado is a basement. If unavailable, go to the lowest floor in a small interior room, such as a closet or bathroom, away from windows.
• Protect yourself by covering your head and neck with a mattress or sturdy object.
• If caught outside, do not try to outrun a tornado. Instead, lie in a ditch or culvert and cover your head.

Being Prepared Before a Severe Storm Strikes

Severe weather can develop quickly, but taking small steps now can make a big difference later.
Start with:

• Making an emergency plan
• Building an emergency supply kit
• Staying informed through alerts and trusted news sources

Preparation is protection. Stay connected with IOEM on Facebook and X (Twitter) for up-to-date information, resources, and safety tips year-round. You can also stay up to date on current weather forecasts, including situations where severe weather is forecast, by visiting weather.gov.