Salt Lake City, Utah – Damaging crosswinds and periods of mountain snow could create hazardous travel across Utah beginning Thursday, Feb. 26, as a volatile late-winter pattern builds through Monday, March 2.
According to NOAA’s 6- to 10-day outlook issued Friday, above-normal temperatures are favored across much of the Southwest and Rockies during the Thursday-to-Monday stretch, while active Pacific systems increase precipitation chances in the Great Basin and central Rockies. That setup supports strong winds along canyon corridors and accumulating snow in higher elevations.
Statewide, the most significant wind impacts may develop along I-15 from Brigham City through Salt Lake City and south toward Cedar City. Gusts between 60 and 70 mph are possible in wind-prone areas, especially near Farmington Canyon and along the Wasatch Front. High-profile vehicles on I-80 west of Salt Lake City could encounter dangerous crosswinds.
In the mountains, including the Wasatch and Uinta ranges, periods of accumulating snow are possible, particularly above pass level. Travel through Parleys Canyon and along I-80 near the Wyoming border could become slick if heavier snow bands develop.
Residents should secure outdoor furniture, prepare for isolated power outages and check UDOT traffic updates before traveling through canyon routes. The unsettled and windy pattern continues through March 2, and additional wind or winter weather advisories may be issued statewide.
