ST. GEORGE — Another winter storm is expected to dump up to a foot of snow in the central and southern mountains of Utah.
According to a news release issued by the National Weather Service early Thursday morning, a winter weather advisory is in effect from 2 p.m. Thursday to 5 p.m. Friday for the central and southern mountain, including the cities of Cove Fort, Fish Lake, Joes Valley, Brian Head and Alton.
Under this advisory, snow is expected, with total snow accumulations of 6-12 inches and the highest amounts in the Pine Valley and Tushar Mountains as well as near Brian Head. Winter driving conditions can be expected across the area, including higher passes along Interstate 15 and Interstate 70.
The forecast for St. George on Thursday, according to the National Weather Service, shows a 60% chance of rain and snow from 2-5 p.m., with a high near 42 degrees Fahrenheit. Little or no snow accumulation is expected.
Cedar City’s forecast shows snow likely after 2 p.m. with a high of 34 degrees Fahrenheit. The accumulation of snow is less than one inch during the day. Temperatures are expected to drop to 19 degrees during the night, and snow accumulations of 2-4 inches are possible.
A winter weather advisory also has been issued for Glen Canyon Recreation Area and Lake Powell, including the cities of Big Water and Bullfrog and is in effect from 11 p.m. Thursday to 11 a.m. Friday.
Under this advisory, snow is expected, with total snow accumulations of 1-3 inches. Periods of winter driving conditions will occur. For those planning to outdoor recreation prepare for cold and snowy conditions.
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.