Salt Lake City is leaning hard into a spring preview on Friday, March 13. Skies are clear early, valley temperatures are already in the mid-50s, and the afternoon high is expected to land near 68°F. Light south-southwest breezes should keep it comfortable for errands, lunch breaks, and just about any outdoor plan in the valley.
Afternoon Winds Stay Manageable
Winds across most of the valley look tame today, generally around 2 to 7 mph. Exposed ridgelines and canyon routes could see a bit more of a breeze during peak afternoon heating. Earlier this week, a few mountain spots saw gusts strong enough to trigger wind advisories, but forecasters expect Friday's valley winds to stay below any advisory levels.
Saturday Front Brings Rain And Thunder
A cold front sliding in on Saturday, March 14, will bring a different vibe. Clouds will increase, with a chance of showers and a slight shot at thunderstorms from Saturday afternoon into the evening. Higher elevations will turn wintry again, with rain changing to snow above roughly 9,000 feet. Strong post-frontal winds are possible across favored downslope areas Saturday night, and a much cooler air mass will knock highs back into the 40s on Sunday, March 15. If you have canyon or ridge travel plans, expect a windier, wetter evening, according to the National Weather Service.
Record-Challenging Warmth Later Next Week
After that system moves through, a strong ridge is expected to build over the West next week, sending daily highs well above normal and into the 70s and possibly 80s by Wednesday and Thursday, March 18 and 19. That stretch could challenge March temperature records in parts of the state. For more on how unusual this warm spell is shaping up to be, check out our early March heat update, as per Hoodline.
Bottom line: soak up Friday's sunshine while it lasts, pack a light layer if you're heading into the canyons Saturday evening, and keep an eye on the National Weather Service or local forecasts before you travel. We will post updates here if any watches or advisories are issued.
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