Salt Lake City started Sunday, March 1, under cloudy skies and a cool 48°F at the airport, the kind of gray morning that calls for an extra cup of coffee. Most of the day is expected to stay mostly cloudy with only a slight chance of light rain in the morning, and temperatures will climb to a warmer high near 63°F by midafternoon.
Monday System Brings Widespread Rain And Thunder
On Monday, March 2, an organized Pacific low is set to move across the region and deliver the highest rain chances of the week. That system will bring showers and a risk of thunderstorms across the valley, along with more widespread snow in the high country. Afternoon highs should land in the upper 50s, around 59°F, and forecasters say new rainfall totals of roughly a quarter to a half inch are possible Monday into Monday night, according to NWS Salt Lake City.
Timing And Road Impacts
The wettest stretch is expected from Monday morning through Tuesday morning, with showers lingering into Tuesday as the system pulls away. Mountain and canyon routes will feel the impacts the most, while valley streets could see brief heavy downpours that slow the Monday commute just enough to test everyone’s patience.
Mountain Snow Outlook
Most of the accumulating snow is expected above the valley floor in the Wasatch and other nearby ranges. As the Monday cold front moves through, snow levels will drop and mountain totals are likely to increase Monday night. Anyone driving into the canyons or heading for the ski areas should plan for fast-changing conditions on upper lifts and along canyon roads.
Local Context
This soggy setup is not exactly a surprise. We first flagged this wet pattern in mid February in coverage of the same stormy trend, as per Hoodline. This update mainly tightens the timing and zeroes in on the Monday and Tuesday window for the most widespread valley rain and mountain snow.
Be Prepared
Plan on an umbrella and a waterproof layer for Monday’s commute. If you will be driving above roughly 7,000-8,000 feet, carry traction gear and allow extra time. Check UDOT traffic cameras and local forecasts before heading into the canyons, and confirm your flight status with your carrier if you are traveling through Salt Lake City International Airport.
Air Travel
Salt Lake City International Airport is expected to remain largely VFR through Sunday. On Monday, heavier showers could briefly reduce visibility and lead to some delays. Travelers should keep an eye on updated forecasts and airline alerts as the system moves in.
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