SOUTHERN UTAH – The National Weather Service has issued multiple weather warnings for Southern Utah in effect Friday through the weekend, including a “Winter Weather Advisory,” an “Avalanche Watch” and a “Hazardous Weather Outlook.”
Avalanche warning
An urgent “Backcountry Avalanche Watch” has been issued by the U.S. Forest Service Utah Avalanche Center.
This avalanche watch is for the mountains of southern and central Utah. Forecasted snow through Saturday will likely create dangerous avalanche conditions Friday night through the weekend.
This watch does not include ski areas or highways where avalanche control is normally done.
For more information visit www.avalanche.org or call 888-999-4019.
Hazardous Weather Outlook
The National Weather Service has issued a “Hazardous Weather Outlook” for the western two-thirds of Utah, including central and Southern Utah. Widespread valley rain and mountain snow is expected through Friday night across central and southern Utah as a storm system slowly crosses the desert southwest.
Affected area
Wasatch Front, western Uinta mountains, Wasatch Plateau/Book Cliffs, western Uinta Basin, Castle Country, San Rafael Swell, Sanpete/Sevier Valleys, west central Utah, southwest Utah, Utah’s Dixie and Zion National Park, south central Utah, Glen Canyon Recreation Area, Lake Powell, central mountains, southern mountains.
Impacts
Significant snow is likely across the higher terrain of central and Southern Utah. Snow levels will generally remain near 7,000 feet but may fall as low as 6,000 feet at times.
Precipitation will wind down from north to south late Friday through Saturday as high pressure builds into the region.
Winter Weather Advisory
A “Winter Weather Advisory” issued by the National Weather Service remains in effect until 4 p.m. Saturday.
Affected area
The mountains of central and Southern Utah and the San Rafael Swell, including the cities of Scofield, Green River, Hanksville, Cove Fort, Koosharem, Fish Lake, Loa, Panguitch and Bryce Canyon.
Snow accumulations
Storm totals of 5-10 inches with 12-18 inches at higher elevations above 8,500 feet.
Timing
Periods of snow, heavy at times, will continue through Friday night before tapering off Saturday.
Impacts
Winter driving conditions are expected on all mountain routes in central and Southern Utah from around Soldier Summit southward starting Friday night and continuing into Saturday. This includes the passes on Interstate 70 and U.S. 89.
Precautionary, preparedness actions
A winter weather advisory for snow means that snow accumulations will cause primarily travel difficulties. Be prepared for snow-covered roads and use caution while driving.
Spotter information
Weather spotters are encouraged to report significant weather conditions according to standard operating procedures.
For more information, visit the National Weather Service website or for information regarding potential road travel impacts, visit the Utah Department of Transportation website.
Related posts
Weather, detailed travel advisories for central, southern Utah
Winter Weather Advisory calls for snow in Southern Utah
Changing skies; National Weather Service forecasts rain, snow
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