Salt Lake City, UT – The Wasatch Front wakes to a cold, still morning as temperatures hover near 30°F under a clear sky. The calm won’t last long. Meteorologists are tracking a fast-moving winter system expected to reach northern Utah late tonight, bringing a mix of snow and rain that could impact Friday morning travel across I-15 and I-80.
According to the National Weather Service in Salt Lake City, snow will likely begin after 11 p.m., with up to 2 inches possible in the valleys and more in the benches and canyons. By Friday morning, the snow may briefly change to rain as warmer air filters in, creating slushy and slick roads for commuters. Drivers should plan extra time, especially through the Cottonwood canyons and eastbound routes toward Park City.
Rain continues into Saturday morning before drier air moves in. While totals stay modest, icy spots and freezing puddles may develop during temperature swings between the mid-20s and upper-30s, increasing the risk of minor collisions. Visibility could also drop briefly during heavier bursts of snow.
By Sunday, skies brighten again with highs near 44°F, though long-range models hint at another Pacific system next week, potentially ushering in fresh snowfall for the Dec. 11–17 travel window—a trend already seen building across the Rockies and northern Plains.
Five-Day Outlook (Salt Lake Valley):
- Friday: Rain/snow mix early, high 41°F.
- Saturday: Rain, high 44°F, turning partly cloudy by night.
- Sunday: Partly sunny, high 44°F, low 32°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high 47°F.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, high 40°F, slight rain chance.
