Avalanches Close Portion Of Highway

Snow, rain and warmer temperatures have caused avalanches that closed down Idaho 21 between Grandjean junction and Banner Summit, the state Department of Transportation said.

The route was shut down Friday afternoon.

“Four minor avalanches have already come down across the highway, and the nine-mile stretch is receiving 1 to 1.5 inches of snow per hour up there,” said Jim Justice, district maintenance coordinator.

The closure will remain in effect until cooler temperatures stabilize the snow.