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IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Damaging winds gusting between 30 and 40 MPH are wreaking havoc across Eastern Idaho today. A High Wind Warning remains in effect for the region until 9:00 PM tonight, as reports of downed trees and utility poles, and structural damage continue.

Major Travel Alert: I-15 Closure

As of 1:06 PM, hazardous driving conditions and low visibility have forced the closure of Interstate 15 in both directions from Idaho Falls to State Highway 33. ITD has not provided an estimated time for reopening, citing extreme gusts and blowing dust.

As of 4:50 PM, hazardous driving conditions and low visibility have forced a closure along I-15 in both directions from S. Idaho Falls Exit 113 to Shelley Exit 108. Travelers and commuters are being directed to use US-91 as an alternate route. For updates, click HERE.

Multiple Crashes Along I-15 South of Idaho Falls

Idaho State Police Troopers are responding to multiple crashes along I-15 due to low visibility from the high winds.

In a post on Facebook, the ISP shared footage of a crash near milepost 113, just south of Idaho Falls. IFFD and other emergency responders are on the scene. According to Jessica Clements with the Idaho Falls Fire Department, the crash took place around 3:04 PM and involved several vehicles.

According to Kimberly Felker, acting PIO for IFFD, emergency responders evaluated those involved in the crash, and one person was taken to a local hospital for further evaluation. No further details on their condition are available at this time.

Local News 8 is reaching out to the ISP and Idaho Falls Police for more details on the crash. For updates on road closures, click HERE.

Idaho Falls: Outages and Damage

In Bonneville County, the winds have caused multiple power outages, including in the Tautphaus Park area. Idaho Falls Power is on-site near the Joe Marmo/Wayne Lehto Ice Arena, where a downed tree and utility pole have severed power to the arena and surrounding residential blocks. Rogers Street off S Boulevard into Tautphaus Park is currently closed due to downed power lines and a tree.

Up to 60 MPH gusts have also stripped paneling from the facade of the Tru by Hilton hotel on Lindsay Blvd.

The City of Idaho Falls says Idaho Falls Power and Idaho Falls Fiber crews will continue working until service is restored to all affected customers, starting with the most affected areas.

“Strong wind events like this can cause widespread damage to trees and power infrastructure,” said Stephen Boorman, Interim General Manager of Idaho Falls Power. “Our crews are out in the field working as quickly and safely as possible to restore power to impacted areas. We appreciate the community’s patience while they work through these outages.”

To report a power outage in your area, visit the Idaho Falls Power website or your utility provider.

City leadership urges residents to stay indoors if possible and exercise extreme caution if travel is necessary:

Idaho Falls Power provides the following Safety reminders during high winds and power outages:

• Use caution around trees, power poles, and other tall objects that may be affected by strong winds.
• Be patient and alert while driving. Debris in the roadway, signal outages, and emergency responses may cause unexpected delays.
• If an object falls into power lines, do not approach it. Downed power lines can still be energized and extremely dangerous.
• When reporting power line issues, please let dispatch know if there is a fire or simply an obstruction on the line.
• Never cross downed power lines, including walking or driving near, on, or under them.
• Report emergencies such as fires or immediate safety hazards to 911.

Local News 8 is tracking the wind’s impact across the region. Follow this story for continuous updates as the situation develops.

Idaho Falls, ID (KIFI) – The Idaho Falls Arts Council proudly presents an unforgettable evening with Cheyenne Jackson—celebrated Broadway star, acclaimed film and television actor, and renowned recording artist—live on stage in Idaho Falls. Experience the excitement of the “Mid Life Torso Tour” as it arrives at the Colonial Theatre on Thursday, March 12th, offering local audiences a rare opportunity to see Jackson’s exceptional talent live on stage.

Famed for his powerhouse vocals and charismatic stage presence, Jackson has enthralled audiences worldwide. His impressive Broadway résumé features starring roles in hits such as “Xanadu,” “Finian’s Rainbow,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” “Into the Woods,” and “Aida.” On television, he’s a familiar face from acclaimed series like “30 Rock,” “American Horror Story,” “Glee,” “Call Me Kat,” and “Julie and the Phantoms.” He has also appeared in major films, including the Oscar-nominated film “United 93” and “The Green”, and the beloved “Descendants” series on Disney.

Cheyenne Jackson’s concerts are a dazzling blend of Broadway classics, pop favorites, and heartfelt personal storytelling, creating an evening that is both intimate and electrifying. Audiences can expect emotional depth, quick wit, and vocal brilliance—an extraordinary chance to experience the magic of a Broadway-caliber artist up close.

Don’t miss this exclusive Idaho Falls performance! Tickets are available now at idahofallsarts.org or in person at our ticket office: 498 A Street, Idaho Falls, ID 83402. Click here for a direct link to tickets.

For an exclusive, behind-the-scenes treat, don’t miss Cheyenne Jackson live on the Local News 8 Noon show the day of the concert! Get a front-row seat to an exciting sneak peek as he shares stories, surprises, and a taste of the spectacular performance awaiting Idaho Falls that night.

RIGBY, Idaho (KIFI) – Just in time for the 250th anniversary of America, one Rigby family has constructed a gigantic display of patriotism in the heart of Idaho.

Trevor Schroeder has created a 39-foot-by-74-foot United States flag on the ceiling of his stand-alone shop or “barn” adjacent to his home.

“I actually came across a video on TikTok, and I saw a video of a garage ceiling like this, and I fell in love with it,” Trevor Schroeder said.  “I showed my wife and she was like, Trevor, you gotta figure out how to do that – make it happen.”

Schroeder and his extended family are handy with their hands as they own and operate Rock Solid Granite and Tile in Idaho Falls.

“Everything is dimensional, so everything’s to scale,” Schroeder said. “Like I said, it just worked out, and it was meant to be.”

The flag is constructed entirely of steel from Teton Steel with custom-made stars.

It was assembled last week in two days by a team of four – Trevor, two brothers and a brother-in-law from Utah.

“It was a fun project to do, especially with those I love and are always in my corner,” Schroeder said. “So it was awesome. It was a good experience.”

With the one-week old Star-Spangled Banner flying proudly overhead, Schroeder expressed gratitude for those sacrificing for the red, white and blue at home and abroad.

“I’m grateful for those that are out risking their lives and for us and and the families of those soldiers and military personnel that are out there,” Schroeder said. “I think at this time we need to buckle up and be one nation under God and stand for our country.”

Idaho Falls, ID (KIFI) – The Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce will host a special community leadership event on Friday afternoon featuring three of Idaho’s top elected officials.

Gov. Brad Little, Lt. Governor Scott Bedke, and Congressman Mike Simpson are scheduled to appear together for a moderated discussion at the Downtown Event Center in Idaho Falls.

The event will begin at 2:30 p.m., with doors opening at 2 p.m.

Unlike a traditional town hall or luncheon, the event will feature a moderated leadership conversation led by Chamber CEO Paul Baker. Baker will guide the discussion and interview the three leaders, focusing on current issues affecting Idaho and the region.

Organizers say the event comes at a key time, as lawmakers continue their work during Idaho’s legislative session. Topics expected to be discussed include budget priorities, economic development, and policy decisions that could impact communities across the state.

Federal policy discussions and international developments are also expected to play a role in shaping Idaho’s economic and political landscape, according to event organizers.

“This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from three leaders who have dedicated years of service to the people of Idaho,” Baker said in a statement. “With both federal and state legislative sessions underway and many important policy and budget decisions being considered, this conversation will provide valuable insight into the direction of our state and nation during an election year.”

The event is open to Chamber members, business leaders, and community stakeholders.

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, March 13
• Doors Open: 2:00 p.m.
• Program Begins: 2:30 p.m.
• Location: Downtown Event Center
• Tickets: $20

To purchase tickets through the Chamber, click here.