Utah roadways are preparing to buckle up for another winter challenge as a new storm is set to roll across the state from Monday evening onward. According to the Utah Department of Transportation, drivers can anticipate a mix of mountain snow and high valley slush that could impinge upon their travel plans through Tuesday.
The onset of the storm will bring high snow levels above 7,000’-8,000’, with rainfall expected below these elevations. However, as the night deepens, the forecast indicates a descent in snow levels down to maybe even 4,500’ by Tuesday morning. Affected areas may include stretches of I-15 and local routes winding through the Wasatch Front. Despite precipitation in these regions, the roads are likely to remain wet, and significant snow-related concerns seem distant as of the current analysis.
Contrastingly, motorists navigating through the higher valleys and along the Wasatch Back, particularly above 6,000 feet, should brace to drive through snow showers persisting into Tuesday. The expected slush on roads following Monday night into the early hours of Tuesday could make for slick, treacherous conditions. Routes such as I-15 near Cedar City and Parowan are anticipated to witness these wintery obstacles first-hand.
For those venturing above 8,000’, the stakes are raised higher with the prospect of several inches of snow accreting on the mountain roadways. Sites earmarked for significant weather-related travel concerns include several pivotal routes, from I-80's Parley's Summit to the WY Border, to SR-12's traverse through the Bryce Canyon area. It is essential to remain vigilant as these conditions are forecasted to gradually taper off only by Wednesday morning.
Authorities are cautioning drivers to navigate the roads with due care and to keep abreast of the latest updates by checking the UDOT website. Those planning to take on mountain and canyon paths need to be particularly conscious of the traction laws that might be rigorously enforced under these weather circumstances. For the current status and future alerts on Utah's road conditions impacted by the incoming storm, travelers are directed to visit the UDOT Traffic website for the most recent advisories.
