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During winter, brisk southwesterly winds often persist for days or weeks. These winds may moderate cold
winter conditions, producing unusually mild temperatures compared to surrounding areas. There are usually
a number of days each winter when temperatures remain below freezing. Sub-zero temperatures usually occur
only a few days each winter. During especially cold outbreaks, snowfall may accumulate to a depth of a foot
or more. Cloudy and unsettled weather is common during the winter with measurable precipitation occurring
on about one-third of the days.
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Spring months are normally wet and windy. Winds of 20 to 30 mph may persist for days at a time. Weather
conditions fluctuate quickly during the spring. Afternoon temperatures in the 30s and 40s with
precipitation in the form of rain or snow may occur after a period of sunny skies and afternoon temperatures in
the 60s or 70s. Thunderstorms are not uncommon, and are usually accompanied by rain showers and occasional
snow. Low elevations snow pack usually melts quickly during the spring, but high elevation snow pack can
persist into late June.
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Summer may begin suddenly with a rapid change to warm and dry weather. Home heating is usually not required
after the first week in June, but chilly nights can persist into early July. Showers and/or thunderstorms
are common from late spring through summer. These storms often produce very localized precipitation. Thunderstorms
are seldom severe, and tornadoes occur infrequently in the area. Brief heavy rain, lightning, small hail, and gusty
winds may cause very localized damage at times. Long periods of excessively hot weather in July and August are uncommon.
Afternoon temperatures often rise into the 90s, however low humidity usually results in overnight temperatures in
the 50s or even cooler. The average growing season in Pocatello is around 120 days, extending from late May to late
September.
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Autumn ushers in cooler weather with daytime highs generally in the 70s in early fall dipping into the mid 40s by mid
November with generally dry conditions. Autumn storms are usually very fast moving, and seldom persist for more
than a few days. Sunny, warm days with cool nights are delightful for outdoor activities. Continuous home heating
is seldom needed until mid October. The first cold wave with highs below 20 and lows around 0 or lower may arrive
anytime between late November and Christmas.
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