Utah starts the day under clear skies, but the calm will not last. Rain, gusty winds, and a late-week temperature drop are already lining up, setting the stage for tricky Christmas travel and a colder turn by the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Salt Lake City, rain develops later today and becomes widespread through Christmas Day. Periods of steady rainfall will keep roads wet and visibility reduced, especially during heavier bursts. Highs reach the upper 50s on Christmas, but the air stays damp and unsettled.
By Thursday night and Friday, rain chances increase again. Winds pick up, and showers become more persistent. Daytime highs fall into the low 50s Friday, while nighttime temperatures slide closer to freezing. Wet pavement will be common, and drivers should expect slick stretches during early and late travel hours.
The focus then shifts to post-Christmas travel on Saturday. Cooler air moves in as precipitation transitions. Latest guidance shows rain changing to snow Saturday morning, with temperatures hovering in the mid-40s during the day. While significant accumulation is not expected in the valley, light snow can still reduce traction.
Saturday night brings the sharper concern. Lows drop near 24 degrees, allowing moisture from earlier rain to freeze quickly. Bridges, overpasses, and shaded roads could turn icy fast, increasing the risk of spin-outs and fender-benders.
Meteorologists are also tracking intense winter systems impacting California and the Sierra Nevada. Heavy rain and mountain snow there could disrupt regional travel and cargo routes feeding into Utah.
What to do now:
Plan extra drive time Saturday. Watch for changing conditions after sunset. Keep winter gear ready.
📅 Five-Day Outlook — Salt Lake City, UT
- Christmas Day: Rain likely, high 58
- Thursday Night: Chance of rain, low 46
- Friday: Rain likely, high 53
- Saturday: Rain changing to snow, high 44
- Saturday Night: Partly cloudy, low 24
