Idaho snowpack has water experts cautiously optimistic

[brewens]

1. I used to take all my vacations in August because you could count on clear hot weather.

I'd go on float trips sometimes and drive shuttle for a bunch of rafters. Hells Canyon that time of year used to be awesome. You didn't need any more than a light raincoat and whatever you like to wear playing in the water. Even if a thunderstorm came through, it couldn't get cold enough to bother anyone.

In recent years, I'd be out of my mind to plan anything like that in the middle of August because of the smoke. I'm not optimistic. We might get a break this year which would be nice, but I bet too hot and dry is the norm in the future.