National Weather Service Boise, Idaho History and Operations

The National Weather Service (NWS) Boise, Idaho is a critical weather forecast office responsible for providing essential weather forecasts, warnings, and local statements. Its jurisdiction covers 3 counties in Southeast Oregon and 14 counties in Southwest and South central Idaho, ensuring the safety and life of residents and residents across the region.

Operational Capabilities

To maintain high accuracy in forecasting, the Boise office utilizes advanced technological systems. The current office maintains a WSR-88D (NEXRAD) radar system, 8 Automated airport weather station (ASOS) systems, and the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS). These tools allow meteorologists to provide precise aviation weather forecasts and fire weather forecasts, which are critical for firefighting efforts and aviation safety.

History of Weather Observations in Boise

Continuous weather observations have been maintained for the city of Boise since February 1, 1864, beginning shortly after the establishment of Fort Boise by the U.S. Army. The evolution of the weather service in the region has expanded through several distinct eras.

Observations at Fort Boise (1864–1898)

The first meteorological observations of temperature and precipitation began at Fort Boise's Post Hospital on February 1, 1864. These observations were taken three times daily by post surgeons and hospital stewards, as it was believed there was a link between human disease and weather. Doctor Adam H. Cochrane, a Scottish-born physician, is believed to have taken the first observation.

U.S. Army's Signal Service Office (1877–1890)

In 1877, the U.S. Army's Signal Service established a station in Boise. The station began operations on July 1, 1877, and was located in the Overland Hotel. It moved several times, eventually settling in the Perrault Building. However, due to a lack of funding and the opening of a new station in Baker City, Oregon, the Boise station was discontinued on June 30, 1890.

U.S. Weather Bureau in Downtown Boise (1898–1939)

Following a gap in official service, the U.S. Weather Bureau established an office in the Sonna Building on December 1, 1898. This office, now known as the National Weather Service, eventually gained forecast responsibility for Southern Idaho in 1970 and expanded to the entire state of Idaho in 1973. After modernization in 1993, its current jurisdiction was refined to Southeast Oregon and Southwest Idaho.