SOUTHERN UTAH — Lovebirds wanting a romantic outdoor picnic on Valentine’s Day are being advised to closely watch the weather conditions. On Sunday, the National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch for the southern and central parts of the state for next week.
According to the news release, the snow storm is expected to move into the area Tuesday morning and remain active through Wednesday afternoon.
Lower elevations such as Fillmore, Beaver, Cedar City, Milford, Springdale, Kanab, Escalante and parts of Zion National Park, blowing snow and wind gusts as high as 55 mph are expected. Travelers could see total snow accumulation of 5 to 7 inches in these areas.
In Brian Head, Cove Fort, Duck Creek, Alton and Fish Lake, the forecast of total snow accumulation is between 6 and 12 inches predicted, with wind gusts of up to 45 mph. The weather service is warning drivers who must travel to pay attention and be prepared, as blowing snow can significantly reduce visibility.
Be prepared
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.
Before you leave
- 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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