The National Weather Service office in Pocatello issued a Heat Advisory early Friday morning covering a large swath of Idaho, warning residents that dangerously high temperatures could pose serious health risks through the weekend.
The advisory, issued at 2:07 AM MDT on July 11, takes effect at noon Friday and remains in place until 9:00 PM MDT on Sunday, July 13. It applies to portions of central, eastern, south central, and southeast Idaho — a broad geographic footprint that includes Bannock County and the greater Pocatello area.
Triple-Digit Heat Expected
Forecasters are warning that temperatures could climb as high as 101 degrees during the advisory period. At those levels, prolonged outdoor exposure can rapidly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, particularly for the elderly, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.
The National Weather Service is urging residents throughout the region to take the heat seriously and make practical adjustments to their daily routines. Health officials consistently note that heat is one of the leading weather-related causes of illness and death in the United States, and extended multi-day events like this weekend’s forecast are especially dangerous because nighttime temperatures may offer little relief.
What Residents Should Do
The NWS is recommending several common-sense precautions for anyone living or working in affected areas:
Stay hydrated. Drink fluids regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can accelerate dehydration in high heat.
Seek air conditioning. If your home lacks air conditioning, find a public cooling location such as a library, shopping center, or designated cooling center during the hottest part of the day.
Limit sun exposure. Stay indoors or in shaded areas, especially between the midday and late afternoon hours when temperatures typically peak.
Check on others. Neighbors, elderly relatives, and those living alone are especially vulnerable. A phone call or quick visit could make a significant difference.
Pocatello has activated cooling centers to help residents without access to air conditioning get through the advisory period. Details on those locations are available here.
What Comes Next
The Heat Advisory is set to expire at 9:00 PM Sunday evening, though residents should monitor updated forecasts from the NWS Pocatello office as conditions may shift. Forecasters can extend or modify advisories if temperatures remain elevated beyond current projections.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of heat illness — including heavy sweating, weakness, cold or clammy skin, nausea, or confusion — should seek medical attention immediately. Heat stroke, which involves a body temperature above 103 degrees and possible loss of consciousness, is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.
Residents are encouraged to take this advisory seriously and plan outdoor activities around the coolest parts of the day, typically early morning, until the heat breaks Sunday night.