CEDAR CITY — Southern Utah residents living in the valleys near Cedar City, Beaver and Milford are being advised by the National Weather Service to remain alert for snowy conditions. The winter weather advisory also included warnings for those driving in the southern mountains, such as Brian Head, Alton, Duck Creek and Pine Valley residents.
From 5 p.m. Sunday night until 7 p.m. Monday, valley residents in Iron and Beaver counties are being warned to expect between 1-5 inches of snow mixed and periodic rain. In higher elevations, including parts of northern Washington County, predictions of up to 12 inches of snow were reported.
“Total snow accumulations of four to nine inches in southwest Utah, and up to 12 inches in the Pine Valley and near Brian Head,” the media alert stated.
The National Weather Service reports a 90% chance of precipitation Sunday night in Cedar City, with a 70% chance on Monday and between 1-3 inches of new snow. Monday night will be partly cloudy with an expected temperature of 5 at the Cedar City airport.
The advisory urges those who must drive in poor weather to slow down and use caution while traveling.
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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