High winds throughout the afternoon and early evening generated numerous reports of downed trees and branches across Ada County. Ada County non-emergency dispatch received dozens of calls related to fallen trees and debris blocking roadways. ACHD crews responded to nearly 60 obstructions. 

ACHD’s vegetation crew worked through the night and into the early morning hours clearing limbs, branches, and entire trees from roadways, sidewalks, and public rights-of-way to help restore safe travel conditions for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. 

The storm brought down trees of all sizes, including several measuring more than 4 feet in diameter and one over fifty feet in length. In at least one instance, a tree fell onto a power pole, contributing to power disruptions in the area. 

Widespread power outages also affected traffic signals throughout Ada County. ACHD’s signal technicians worked into the night repairing damaged signal equipment, restoring operations where possible, and coordinating closely with Idaho Power as electrical service was restored. 

“Storm events like this require a coordinated response across multiple crews and agencies,” said ACHD Director, Ryan Head. “We are so grateful for a dedicated team that will do what is needed to take care of the public.” 

With ongoing power outages, motorists are reminded to treat any dark or malfunctioning traffic signal as a four-way stop and to use caution when traveling near cleanup operations. 

ACHD crews will continue assessing and addressing storm-related damage as needed.