Weather service forecasts rain, snow for Southern Utah, warns motorists of slippery roads

This 2019 file photo shows and area near Interstate 15 Exit 40, Southern Utah, Feb. 5, 2019 | Photo courtesy of Rebecca Guillen, St. George News / Cedar City News

ST. GEORGE — Southern Utah is in store for more winter weather.

The shaded area on the map indicates where the winter weather advisory is in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday | Image courtesy of National Weather Service, St. George News

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for the southern mountains in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday. Snow is expected with total accumulations of 4 to 8 inches, with heaviest accumulations on the south-facing slopes. This advisory includes Washington, Kane, Iron, Beaver and Garfield counties, as well as the cities of Brian Head and Alton.

The weather service also issued a winter weather advisory with up to 6 inches of snow for the cities of Bryce Canyon, Escalante and Kanab in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday

Motorists in these areas should plan for slippery road conditions.

According to a detailed weather forecast for Wednesday in St. George, there is a 50% chance of rain. The sky will be mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny. The high is expected to be near 51, and northeast winds 5 to 8 mph will turn southwest in the afternoon.

In Cedar City, the weather service forecasts snow, mainly before 5 p.m., with a high near 34. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Total daytime snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches is possible.

Precautionary and preparedness actions

For the most current conditions, warnings and advisories, go to the National Weather Service-Salt Lake City office website. Additional information on driving conditions can be found at the UDOT website, as well as UDOT’s Commuterlink for current road and weather conditions, or dial 511.

Download this printable PDF: Vehicle Preparation and Safety Precautions for Winter Weather. This is a project the whole family could participate in – make it a scavenger hunt with potentially lifesaving benefits.

Getting ready

  • Be aware of road conditions. UDOT recommends checking CommuterLink for road and weather conditions before leaving home.
  • Clear any frost and snow from the car’s lights and windows. Make an effort to see and be seen while driving.
  • Inspect the vehicle’s tires, fluids, wiper blades, lights and hoses. Preventative maintenance may save a car from breaking down and stranding drivers and passengers on the highway.
  • Allow for leeway in travel time. Expect to drive slowly in adverse weather conditions. High speeds can lead to skidding off the road and getting stuck in the snow.
  • Have emergency supplies in the car. A basic winter emergency kit may include items like a flashlight, batteries, snacks, water, gloves, boots and a first-aid kit.

When driving

  • Take it slow. Drive well below posted speed limits and leave plenty of space between cars.
  • Approach intersections, off-ramps, bridges and shaded areas slowly. These areas are hot spots for black ice.
  • Slow down in cases of limited visibility and be alert.
  • Whether someone drives an elevated SUV or a ground-kissing Toyota Prius, again, UDOT says to take it slow. Just because a truck has 4-wheel drive doesn’t change how it handles on the road, especially when traction goes out the window. Mother Nature is no respecter of automotive diversity.
  • Keep the vehicle’s speed down. The faster the car goes, the longer it takes to stop. Be slow on the accelerator or risk having the car skid when the next stop sign appears.
  • Do not use the car’s cruise control while ice and snow still abound.

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