Salt Lake City, UT – Utah is bracing for a powerful early winter system that could bring heavy snow, gusty winds, and freezing temperatures from November 28–30, impacting Black Friday travel and ski traffic through the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains. The cold front will deliver widespread snow to mountain areas and a sharp temperature drop statewide.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Salt Lake City and Pocatello, a moderate to high risk of heavy snow exists across northern and central Utah from Friday into Saturday. The Wasatch Range could see 10–18 inches, with locally higher totals in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons. Salt Lake City and the valleys could receive 2–5 inches, with blowing snow and slick roads likely. Gusts of 30–40 mph will accompany the cold surge, reducing visibility and creating hazardous driving conditions.
According to the Utah Department of Transportation, major passes including Parleys Summit, Sardine Canyon, and U.S. 89 near Logan will face reduced visibility and icy conditions Friday night into Saturday morning. Chain requirements may be issued for canyon travel, and snow squalls could rapidly reduce visibility across I-15 and I-80.
The coldest air of the season follows the storm, with highs only in the 20s and lows in the teens through Sunday. Residents are urged to prepare for power interruptions, protect pets and pipes, and plan for delays heading into the final weekend of November.
