SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake Valley's first taste of winter weather is expected to hit overnight Wednesday into Thursday as the area gets its first snowfall of the year.

KSL meteorologist Grant Weyman is predicting a trace to 3 inches of snow in areas of the valley, with significant accumulation possible in the mountains. Overnight temperatures are expected to fall to near freezing and could affect the morning commute.

The winter weather is predicted to begin Wednesday evening with rain showers after 7 p.m., turning into snow during the overnight hours before becoming rain again throughout the day Thursday before tapering off later that evening. High temperatures are expected to be in the low 40s on Thursday, then dropping into the 20s overnight.

Forecasts call for the sun to return Friday, though cool temperatures will persist with highs in the mid-40s followed by lows the 20s. The weekend should be warmer and sunny with highs in the 50s and lows in the 30s.

With the anticipated storm approaching, the Utah Department of Transportation's 500-plus full-time snowplow drivers are preparing to keep the state's highways and interstates clear of snow and ice this weekend, explained Jake Brown, roadway operations manager for Big and Little Cottonwood canyons.

“Our team is ready for whatever the winter brings,” Brown said. “We’ve been preparing for this first storm for weeks now and are anxious to get to work. Our goal is to keep the roads clear so you can safely get to where you’re going.”

Meanwhile, with snow predicted to fall heavily in the higher elevations, UDOT is urging drivers to be prepared in the event something happens and their vehicle is stranded or disabled.

“We’d like people to have a blanket, gloves, a flashlight, water and even a couple of power bars (in their vehicles, just in case),” he said. “That will make it a little easier until a tow truck can arrive and help get you out of the situation.”

Officials also advise drivers to make sure their vehicles have chains or snow tires when driving in Utah’s canyons. Chains or mud and snow-rated tires are required to travel through many of Utah’s canyons or mountain passes, Brown noted.

“If you’re driving up the canyon and see an overhead sign that says, ‘chains required,’ pay attention. It’s not optional. Don’t risk it,” said Jeff Reynolds, of UDOT's incident management team. “Unfortunately, every year we see people take their chances and get in a crash, which often blocks the canyon for hours. Make sure you have the right equipment before you hit the road.”

For more information, visit udot.utah.gov/go/chainup.

Winter driving tips

• Slow down.
• Do not pass a snowplow; stay back at least 200 feet.
• Allow extra distance between your car and the one in front of you.
• Keep your windshield, windows and lights clear of snow and ice.
• Check your tires for proper pressure and sufficient tread.
• Check your lights and windshield wiper blades to make sure they work properly.
• Prepare an emergency kit that includes a blanket, flashlight, first-aid kit, jumper cables, bottled water and granola/energy bars. Source: Utah Department of Transportation

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