Salt Lake City, Utah – A warmer-than-normal and wetter weather pattern is expected to develop across Utah heading into Valentine’s Day weekend, increasing the likelihood of rain along valley floors, heavier snow in the mountains, and changing travel conditions from Saturday through midweek. While no single high-impact winter storm is currently locked in, repeated systems could create cumulative impacts, especially in mountain travel corridors.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Utah is favored for above-normal precipitation and above-normal temperatures during the February 14–18 period. This pattern weakens prolonged cold air intrusions while allowing Pacific moisture to stream into the Great Basin and Wasatch Range.
Along the Wasatch Front, including Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Provo, milder daytime temperatures may push precipitation toward rain at times, particularly during daylight hours. Overnight cooling could still allow brief periods of wet snow or slush, increasing the risk for slick travel during early morning hours on I-15, I-80, and major commuter routes.
In northern and central Utah mountains, including the Wasatch, Uintas, and Cache Range, snowfall is expected to be more persistent. Warmer air aloft may lead to heavier, moisture-laden snow, increasing impacts over Parleys Canyon, Big Cottonwood Canyon, Little Cottonwood Canyon, and Sardine Canyon.
Southern Utah, including Cedar City, St. George, and Kanab, may see rain as the dominant precipitation type, with snow confined to higher elevations. Periods of steady rain could create slick roads along I-15 and U.S. 89, especially during overnight travel.
The Utah Department of Transportation advises motorists to monitor conditions closely, particularly for canyon travel where traction restrictions are more likely during heavier snow periods. Air travel through Salt Lake City International Airport may see occasional delays during periods of low ceilings or steadier precipitation, though widespread disruptions are not expected.
This warmer, wetter pattern is expected to persist into midweek. Additional advisories may be issued as individual systems become clearer, and residents and travelers are urged to stay alert for updated alerts, especially for mountain travel and overnight driving conditions.
