Utah – A gray veil hangs over the Salt Lake Valley this morning, muting the skyline and trapping cold air close to the ground. The air feels heavy and still, with visibility reduced as haze settles across the metro.
Temperatures start near 28 degrees, and calm winds allow cold air to pool across the valley floor. Roads remain dry, but frost coats shaded sidewalks and parked cars, especially in low-lying neighborhoods.
According to the National Weather Service, widespread haze dominates through Friday as a stable weather pattern locks in. Daytime highs climb only into the low to mid-40s, offering modest relief but little mixing. Air quality may remain poor at times, particularly during morning and evening commutes.
Wednesday and Thursday bring similar conditions. Sunshine filters through the haze, but it struggles to fully clear. Afternoon highs reach near 43 to 44 degrees, while nights drop back into the mid-20s. Drivers along I-15, I-80, and surface streets should watch for slick patches early, especially near bridges and shaded ramps.
Friday stays hazy through much of the day, though slightly clearer conditions may develop late. Highs again reach the low 40s before temperatures fall quickly after sunset. Calm winds continue, limiting overnight improvement.
A noticeable change arrives this weekend. Saturday turns sunny, with highs near 46 degrees and better visibility across the valley. Saturday night remains cold, near 28 degrees, but clearer air reduces haze-related impacts. Sunday continues the trend, warming toward the upper 40s under mostly clear skies.
Looking ahead, longer-range outlooks suggest gradual warming into late January, with temperatures trending above normal across the region. Until then, limit prolonged outdoor exposure during hazy periods and allow extra time on frosty mornings.
Is haze affecting your commute today, or are conditions improving where you are?
Five Day Outlook for Salt Lake City, Utah
• Wednesday: Widespread haze, high near 43°F
• Thursday: Hazy sunshine, high near 44°F
• Friday: Haze early, high near 43°F
• Saturday: Sunny and clearer, high near 46°F
• Sunday: Sunny, improving air, high near 48°F
