National Weather Service warns of river rises, thunderstorms and potential record highs
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The National Weather Service’s Spokane office warned North Idaho residents Monday that river levels may rise rapidly this week.
Recent rain and snowmelt from higher-than-average temperatures will likely cause flows to increase; the office added that there is a low probability for rises to reach a flood stage.
The office also issued a warning for severe thunderstorms in eastern Washington and North Idaho Wednesday afternoon and evening. Forecasters categorized the threat for Sandpoint and Bonner County as “marginal,” and rated it as 1 out of 5 on a scale of risk.
Severe storms like those forecasted have the potential to produce frequent lightning and heavy precipitation. The office listed large hail and gusty winds as the primary risks.
As of 5 p.m. Tuesday, forecasters are predicting highs of 67, 69 and 74 degrees in Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry and Coeur d’Alene today.
The record high temperatures for March 26 in the three cities are 62, 65 and 70 degrees, set in 1997, 1978 and 1960, respectively.