Strong thunderstorms shake Eastern Idaho on Wednesday
Eastern Idaho faced a dangerous weather outbreak during the afternoon and evening of Wednesday, June 11, 2025, prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) in Pocatello to issue multiple severe weather warnings across the region. A severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect until 9 p.m. MDT, encompassing much of eastern Idaho.
Golf-ball sized hail and 60 mph wind gusts reported
By 4:30 p.m., a severe thunderstorm warning was active for parts of northeastern Caribou County and southeastern Bonneville County. The main threats: hail reaching up to golf-ball size (about 1.75 inches, or 4.45 cm) and wind gusts hitting 60 mph (about 97 km/h). According to observers, hail in some locations reached half-dollar size before melting rapidly.
The NWS Pocatello issued a clear warning: flying debris may pose a significant threat to people caught outdoors without protection. Mobile homes, vehicles, windows, and roofs are especially vulnerable, and tree damage is anticipated throughout the region.
Tornado warning briefly hits Downey area
In addition to thunderstorm alerts, a brief tornado warning was issued near Downey, affecting southwestern Caribou, northeastern Oneida, southeastern Bannock, and northwestern Franklin counties. While the warning was short-lived, it heightened concern for possible tornado activity embedded in the severe storms.
All types of severe weather possible
According to NWS meteorologists, these storms are capable of unleashing “all types of severe weather,” including destructive straight-line winds, extremely large hail, and tornadoes. The public is urged to move immediately to safe shelter, such as an interior room, bathroom, closet, or preferably a basement, as the situation can escalate quickly.
Stay weather-alert and connected
The NWS Pocatello emphasized the importance of using multiple channels for receiving weather alerts—whether via smartphone apps, weather radios, or broadcast media. The storm threat continues through the evening across eastern Idaho, especially in rural areas where communications and shelter options may be more limited.
If you captured photos or videos of the storm, the local news outlet invites you to share them at [email protected].
