ST. GEORGE — Southwest mountains could be in store for as much as 2 feet of snow this week, according to a winter weather watch issued by the National Weather Service.
The winter storm watch is in effect from 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8, through 5 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 10, for Wasatch Plateau/Book Cliffs, Central Mountains and Southern Mountains and includes the cities of Scofield, Indian Canyon, Cove Fort, Fish Lake, Joes Valley, Brian Head and Alton.
Under this watch, heavy snow is possible with total snow accumulations of 1 to 2 feet possible, with locally higher accumulations possible, especially on south and west-facing slopes across southwestern Utah, the weather service says.
Winter driving conditions can be expected. Be prepared for traction restrictions.
High wind warning
A high wind warning also is in effect for Southern Utah, which began Monday morning and continues through 8 p.m. Monday evening, and a wind advisory will continue into the early morning hours of Wednesday, Nov. 9.
Included in this warning are the cities of Delta, Little Sahara, Beaver, Cedar City and Milford. For the high wind warning, 30 to 40 mph south winds with gusts up to 65 mph are expected. For the wind advisory, 25 to 35 mph south winds with gusts up to 55 mph are expected.
Precautionary and preparedness actions for winter weather
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.
Updated Nov. 7, 4:15 p.m.: Adds start time and new end time and date of alter.