Winter storm warnings for Southern Utah, the forecast and what to expect

SALT LAKE CITY — The National Weather Service in Salt Lake City broadcast several weather alerts related to Southern Utah and the five counties of Beaver, Garfield, Kane, Iron and Washington.

The remnants of a previous storm can be seen west of Cedar City, Utah, Jan. 6, 2023 | Photo by Haven Scott, St. George News

A storm expected to hit the area at 11 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 6, is expected to produce both snow and rain, depending on where one resides.

According to one alert, the southwest cities of Beaver, Cedar City and Milford were issued a weather advisory from 11 p.m. on Jan. 6 to 5 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 8.

“Snow expected,” the weather service predicted. “Total snow accumulations of two to five inches, the highest in the Cedar City area. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph. Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility.

In the southern mountain cities of Brian Head and Alton, a similar warning was issued to produce even more snow. That alert said the storm is expected to leave the area at 11 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 7.

“Total snow accumulations of six to 12 inches, highest in the Brian Head area,” the alert read. “Winds gusting as high as 45 mph. Slow down and use caution while traveling.”

Radar over Southern Utah valid at 2:02 p.m. MST, Jan. 6, 2024 | Image by National Weather Service, St. George News

In Zion National Park, including the cities of Springdale, Kanab and Escalante, a storm with the potential for snow is also expected to last until 11 p.m. on Jan. 7

“Snow expected,” according to the alert. “Total snow accumulations of one to six inches, highest in upper elevations of Zion National Park and south central Utah. Travel could be very difficult to impossible.”

Usually left out of the winter parties, Washington County could see trace amounts of snow. According to weather service staff, the cities of St George, Hurricane and Ivins will experience wind and might see snow until 11 p.m. on Sunday.

“Total snow accumulations of a trace to one inch below 3000 feet elevation and one to three inches above 3000 feet elevation,” read the alert. “Winds gusting as high as 45 mph near Black Ridge Canyon on Sunday. Plan on slippery road conditions.”

For information on weather patterns before leaving for trip, visit the National Weather Service website. For up-to-date road conditions and traffic, visit the Utah Department of Transportation website.

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