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SALT LAKE CITY — Dreaming of a white Christmas?
You may be in luck if you live in northern Utah. Meanwhile, those living in central or southern Utah are expected to experience warmer and drier conditions, according to latest forecasts by the National Weather Service and KSL Weather.
The forecast in northern Utah is much different than original forecasts that will likely bring joy to skiers and possibly pains for commuters, says KSL meteorologist Grant Weyman.
“It could end up being a wet Christmas for some because it looks like we’re going to be right on that border where we’ll see snow or perhaps rain changing to snow or a scenario where we see snow in the morning that becomes light rain in the afternoon,” he said. “I think our chances are way better getting a white Christmas, especially if you’re up in higher elevation.”
The first system is expected to come through northern Utah Friday, with light snow beginning to fall at night and snow falling through to Saturday. Weyman said those living in valley areas will likely see anywhere from a trace of snow to a couple of inches, with benches and mountainous areas receiving more.
Another system bringing rain and snow showers was expected to pass through Sunday and additional rain and snow showers possible Christmas Day.
Those expected to see precipitation range throughout the Wasatch Front, but Weyman said those living as far south as areas near Cedar City could also see some snow or rain. Temperatures in those areas range from highs in the 30s and 40s to lows in the teens during the weekend and into Monday.
Original forecasts projected dry conditions across northern Utah with temperatures topping out in the teens and seeing lows in the single-digits. Weyman said that’s an example of constantly updating computer models, which are able to more accurately forecast within two or three days in advance than a week or two in advance.
Those living in southern Utah are in for warmer temperatures and drier conditions.
“They’re looking good,” Weyman said. Temperatures in St. George are forecasted to reach the high 50s to low 60s Monday.
