Storm warning for Kootenai County

The Kootenai County Sheriff's Department is warning citizens that severe thunderstorms are headed for North Idaho later today.

The storms, predicted by the National Weather Service, are expected to bring damaging winds, hail and intense rain.

Boaters and others should take special care to be off bodies of water as the storms approach and to take appropriate shelter. Caution should be used near streams as intense rains may cause streams to rise suddenly.

Drivers are asked to use special caution as the damaging winds may down limbs and trees into roadways.

If downed power lines are observed, citizens are urged to contact their local law enforcement agencies or the power company, and told not to attempt to move them on their own.