Utah — Headlights cut through crisp air along the Wasatch Front as pavement glitters before sunrise. Salt Lake City wakes near 23 degrees this Monday morning, cold enough for slick spots on untreated roads and shaded sidewalks.
Clear skies dominate early, but the chill lingers. Calm winds allow temperatures to recover slowly, topping out near 39 degrees this afternoon. That modest warm-up helps main roads dry, yet refreeze remains possible once the sun drops tonight. Drivers should watch ramps, bridges, and neighborhood streets through the evening commute.
Tuesday brings brighter conditions and a noticeable improvement. Sunshine pushes highs into the mid-40s, making it feel more comfortable for errands and regional travel. To be fair, overnight lows still dip below freezing, so morning slick spots cannot be ruled out.
Momentum builds midweek. Wednesday turns milder with highs near 49 degrees under partly sunny skies. Meteorologists are now tracking a developing system that shifts the pattern late Wednesday night. Clouds thicken, and rain chances increase after dark, especially along I-15 and the urban corridor.
That system becomes the main story for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day 2026. Rain looks increasingly likely on Thursday with highs near 48 degrees. Wet pavement could slow holiday travel, even without snow in the valley. In higher elevations, precipitation may mix with snow, affecting canyon routes and ski traffic.
The key impact this week is timing. Cold mornings allow ice to form, while warmer afternoons melt it away, only for refreezing to return after sunset. Plan extra time early and late in the day. Keep distance between vehicles and slow down on bridges.
The final days of 2025 stay active as winter tightens its grip, then loosens just enough for rain. Traveling today or for New Year’s? What are road conditions like in your neighborhood?
5-Day Outlook for Salt Lake City, Utah
- Monday: Sunny, high 39
- Monday Night: Mostly clear, low 25
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 44
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high 49
- Thursday (New Year’s Day): Rain likely, high 48
