Why Does Idaho Get Hot? Causes and Heat Countermeasures

[Causes of Heat in Idaho]

1. Large Temperature Variations Due to Continental Climate

• Idaho is located inland, far from the Pacific coast, so it does not benefit from the ocean’s temperature-regulating effects.
• As a result, it has a strong continental climate, with very hot summers and very cold winters.
• Daytime temperatures can reach nearly 95°F (35°C), especially in the southern basin areas of the state (e.g., Boise), where summer heat is particularly noticeable.

2. Influence of High Pressure and Dryness

• During summer, the Pacific high-pressure system crosses the mountains, bringing dry, hot winds into Idaho.
• Although humidity is low and the heat feels dry, this also means that dehydration and heatstroke risks may go unnoticed.

3. Urbanization and Heat Island Effect (Limited)

• Idaho has few large cities, so the urban heat island effect is relatively small, but with population growth, areas such as the Boise metropolitan area are experiencing gradual temperature increases.

[Heat Countermeasures in Idaho]

1. Cooling and Insulation Suited for a Dry Climate

• Central air conditioning is widely used, but evaporative coolers (swamp coolers), which suit dry climates, are also popular.
• Homes are generally well insulated to handle the large temperature differences between day and night.

2. Outdoor Activity Adjustments

• It is common practice to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest afternoon hours and instead be active in the morning or evening.
• In mountainous areas, people often go to high-elevation campsites or lakeshores for summer relief.

3. Thorough Hydration

• Because of low humidity, people often don’t realize how much they are sweating, so frequent hydration is essential.
• Use of cold drinks, insulated bottles, hats, and sunglasses is highly recommended.

[Cool Spots in Idaho]

Idaho is characterized by mountainous terrain, plateaus, valleys, and lakes, with about two-thirds of the state covered by mountains. This means there are many relatively cool summer retreats, especially in high-altitude or forested areas.

1. Sun Valley and Ketchum

• Located at about 1,800 meters (6,000 feet), this mountain resort area enjoys comfortable summer temperatures around 77°F (25°C) during the day and about 50°F (10°C) at night.
• The beautiful mountain scenery and resort town atmosphere make it a popular summer destination.

2. Lake Coeur d’Alene Area

• Situated in northern Idaho, this resort area surrounded by lake and forest experiences summer highs above 86°F (30°C), but the lake breeze and surrounding woods help keep it relatively cool and pleasant.
• Boating, kayaking, and fishing are popular leisure activities that combine fun and cooling.

3. Selway Mountains and St. Joe National Forest

• This mountainous forest region in northern Idaho has a cool climate both day and night.
• It offers excellent spots for camping and trekking to escape the summer heat.

4. Sawtooth Mountains in Central Idaho

• The rugged Sawtooth Range includes many peaks above 2,000 meters (6,500 feet), where summer daytime temperatures often stay around 68°F (20°C).
• The area is popular for hiking, fishing, and enjoying mountain lakes.

[Summary]

[Note on Heatstroke Risk in Dry Areas]

Though Idaho’s heat is dry rather than humid, this can be misleading. The risk of dehydration and heatstroke is high, especially during outdoor activities, and heat exhaustion can develop without obvious symptoms.