Weather Hazards

Winter recreation

The region’s warm, soggy and snowless winter is producing some unusually hazardous conditions for outdoor enthusiasts.

Rivers have been flowing faster and higher than usual, putting anglers and duck hunters in danger.

Snow conditions are prime for avalanches. Rock slides are covering highways and blocking snowmobile routes.

Limited snow is causing heavy traffic on the few snowmobile trails that are available.

Idaho normally has about 6,800 miles of snowmobile trails, but because of lack of snow, only a fraction of that system had been available through mid-January, said Chuck Wells, state Parks and Recreation Department trails manager.

Since 1992 there has been a 34 percent increase in the number of snowmobilers in Idaho. That means the trails that are available are crowded.

Wells stressed that the state’s 32,000 snowmobilers need to be extra cautious. People heading to outdoor adventures should keep their vehicle stocked with emergency items for winter, which means a sleeping bag or blankets, extra clothing, and food and water in case you get stuck and have to spend the night.

Have a candle handy for warmth. Also stock the trunk with a first-aid kit, shovel and flares.