Here comes the cold
A one-two weather punch is expected to sock the area over the next week.
Single-digit temperatures are expected to be the norm this week and the lows could even reach below zero, said Cliff Harris, climatologist.
"If we're going to go below zero, it looks like the best chance is Friday morning," Harris said. "But that doesn't mean it can't do it Wednesday or Thursday morning either, if the skies are clear.
"The cold front is moving in. Winter has come back with a vengeance."
Harris said the last time Coeur d'Alene had sub-zero temperatures was Feb. 26, 2011, when it reached a record minus 4 degrees. Temperatures reached below zero in the northern part of Kootenai County in early December.
Harris said the daytime highs this week are only expected to reach the teens.
Sunday through Tuesday, however, warmer temperatures are expected to return and bring more snow.
"We could get 6 to 10 inches (during that time)," Harris said. "Warmer air overriding this dome of cold air is the perfect snowmaker."
Harris said 3.5 inches of snow fell in the Coeur d'Alene area Sunday night and Monday morning. That brought the snowfall total to 31.4 inches for the year. Nearly half of that amount has fallen in just the past week.
The normal snowfall for this time of year is 50 inches and the normal for the entire winter is 68.9.
The snow has continued to keep police busy on the streets.
Kootenai County's 911 center received 24 calls for traffic crashes between noon on Saturday and noon on Monday. In addition, there were about 30 slideoffs during that 48-hour period, according to the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office.
"Some thawing in the day then freezing overnight makes for some good ice," said KCSO Lt. Stu Miller. "Slow down. Just because there are speed limits doesn't mean people need to drive that fast. Currently, if a person is traveling at the limit on most every road, it is too fast for the conditions."
With temperatures falling this week, Miller said it's a good idea to have extra clothing, blankets, a phone and charger in your vehicle in case you get stranded.
"If you're planning an extended trip, tell someone where you are going, the route you will be taking and when you will be back," Miller said.