ITD avalanche team assesses Wapiti fire damage on SH-21 avalanche paths

The Idaho Transportation Department’s avalanche team is back in Lowman and preparing for the upcoming winter season. The team recently conducted an aerial survey to assess changes in the corridor caused by the Wapiti Fire.

“The aerial survey gave us a clearer understanding of the risks,” said Bill Nicholson, ITD avalanche team leader. “We feel reassured when it comes to avalanches. However, the fire has increased the risk of mudslides and debris flows. Our team is ready and we remain focused on keeping the highway safe for travelers, just as we do every year.”

Another difference this winter brings is La Niña. The National Weather Service is forecasting colder temperatures and more precipitation for the region. Excessive moisture in areas affected by wildfires could lead to an increased risk of flooding and landslides.

ITD’s avalanche team is based in Lowman, 20 miles from an avalanche-prone section of State Highway 21 that stretches from Grandjean to Banner Summit. Each winter, the team monitors conditions and decides when to close roads due to avalanche risk.

There are more than 70 avalanche paths along SH-21. The ITD avalanche team is also closely monitoring U.S. Highway 12 near the Montana border.

There are only three highways in the United States that fall into the “High” category of the Avalanche Danger Index: SH-21 in Lowman, State Highway 210 in Utah, and US Highway 550 in Colorado.