ST. GEORGE — It’s time to ditch those Halloween costumes and grab a coat.

On Monday, the National Weather Service out of Salt Lake City issued multiple winter weather advisories for large portions spread across Utah, including parts of Southern Utah in effect from noon Wednesday, Nov. 2, to midnight Thursday, Nov. 3.

The weather forecasts total snow accumulations of 2 to 6 inches in lower elevation areas and total snow accumulations of 6 to 12 inches in higher elevation areas for southwest Utah, including the cities of Delta, Little Sahara, Nephi, Scipio, Fillmore, Beaver, Cedar City and Milford.

Also during this time, the weather service says snow is expected with total snow accumulations of 6 to 12 inches, with locally higher amounts for the Western Uinta Mountains-Wasatch Plateau/Book Cliffs, Central Mountains, Southern Mountains and the cities of Mirror Lake Highway, Moon Lake, Scofield, Indian Canyon, Cove Fort, Fish Lake, Joes Valley, Brian Head and Alton.

Snow also is expected for Sevier River Valleys and Bryce Canyon country during this time, with total snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches, and the most snow accumulation expected in and near Bryce Canyon, according to the weather service.

High wind warning

A high wind warning also was issued and includes the cities of Beaver, Cedar City and Milford in effect from noon Tuesday to 6 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 2. The weather service forecasts south winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected and locally higher in wind-prone areas.

High winds may move loose debris, damage property and cause power outages. Travel will be difficult especially for high-profile vehicles due to crosswinds. Reduced visibility in blowing dust.

Winter weather impacts

Winter driving conditions, especially for seasonal routes and mountain passes. Backcountry access will become treacherous and should be taken into consideration for hikers, hunters and other recreators. Be prepared for traction restrictions.

Precautionary and preparedness actions

For the most current conditions, warnings and advisories, go to the National Weather Service-Salt Lake City office website. Additional information on driving conditions can be found at the UDOT website, as well as UDOT’s Commuterlink for current road and weather conditions, or dial 511.

Download this printable PDF: Vehicle Preparation and Safety Precautions for Winter Weather. This is a project the whole family could participate in – make it a scavenger hunt with potentially lifesaving benefits.

Getting ready

• Be aware of road conditions. UDOT recommends checking CommuterLink for road and weather conditions before leaving home.
• Clear any frost and snow from the car’s lights and windows. Make an effort to see and be seen while driving.
• Inspect the vehicle’s tires, fluids, wiper blades, lights and hoses. Preventative maintenance may save a car from breaking down and stranding drivers and passengers on the highway.
• Allow for leeway in travel time. Expect to drive slowly in adverse weather conditions. High speeds can lead to skidding off the road and getting stuck in the snow.
• Have emergency supplies in the car. A basic winter emergency kit may include items like a flashlight, batteries, snacks, water, gloves, boots and a first-aid kit.

When driving

• Take it slow. Drive well below posted speed limits and leave plenty of space between cars.
• Approach intersections, off-ramps, bridges and shaded areas slowly. These areas are hot spots for black ice.
• Slow down in cases of limited visibility and be alert.
• Whether someone drives an elevated SUV or a ground-kissing Toyota Prius, again, UDOT says to take it slow. Just because a truck has 4-wheel drive doesn’t change how it handles on the road, especially when traction goes out the window. Mother Nature is no respecter of automotive diversity.
• Keep the vehicle’s speed down. The faster the car goes, the longer it takes to stop. Be slow on the accelerator or risk having the car skid when the next stop sign appears.
• Do not use the car’s cruise control while ice and snow still abound.

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