Eastern Idaho faces flood watch and hard freeze this weekend

Eastern Idaho is facing a period of volatile weather, including a flood watch and the potential for a hard freeze. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch from Saturday afternoon through Monday afternoon, as an upper low moving into the Pacific Northwest combines with moisture from Tropical Cyclone Rachel.

Expected rainfall amounts could reach 1 to 2 inches, with localized amounts of up to 3 inches possible in higher terrain. This excessive runoff may lead to the flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying areas. The weather pattern is expected to bring rain and thunderstorms through the weekend, with a chance of snow overnight on Sunday.

In addition to flooding risks, residents are preparing for a significant temperature drop. Following recent warm temperatures, the region expects its first hard freeze this weekend, which may include snowfall. Homeowners are advised to prepare for freezing temperatures by disconnecting outdoor hoses, covering faucets, and blowing out sprinkler systems to prevent pipe damage.