SANDPOINT — North Idahoans may want to hunker down as cold conditions hold through next week.

“We’re getting modified arctic air from much farther north spilling into our area,” Daniel Butler, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service Forecast Office in Spokane, said Friday. 

Weather watchers expect to see more of the same through the weekend and into next week, with below-average temperatures and dry conditions. On the warmer end, temperatures will range between the upper 20s and the lower 30s. On the colder end, prepare for temperatures ranging from the upper teens and lower 20s. 

Light winds are anticipated to blow in from the northwest through Monday and then switch course by Tuesday, blowing from the southwest. Variable winds are expected through Wednesday and Thursday. 

“It’ll make it feel colder,” Butler said. 

Still, he said, light winds shouldn’t cause much trouble. 

If temperatures stay low, snow is likely late next week.

North Idaho experienced chillier conditions around the same time last year. During that period, the Spokane International Airport saw a nighttime low of minus 11. 

It wasn’t without precedent. Since 1881, Butler said, the region experienced a few days of below-zero temperatures in mid-January between 5% and 8% of the time. 

“It’s not abnormal by any means,” Butler said. 

Because it’s been so long since North Idaho endured a real cold snap, Butler advised folks to brush up on cold weather safety. 

“Make sure to dress in layers,” he said. “Cover all exposed skin. Limit your time outdoors.” 

Pets are an important consideration when temperatures drop. 

“Some breeds can take the cold a little better than others, but bring them indoors if they’ve been out for a while,” Butler said. 

When traveling in wintry conditions, stay informed about weather and road conditions and take care to drive safely. It’s wise to pack a kit with an ice scraper, shovel, blankets, snacks, a first-aid kit and traction aids. 

“That’s always good to have when there’s low temperatures,” Butler said.