Urgent Winter Weather Advisory issued for 15 Utah counties
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Salt Lake City has issued an emergency alert winter weather advice affecting mountainous areas in 15 Utah countieswarning of new snowfall and hazardous travel conditions through Thursday afternoon.
The advisory, issued at 4:53 a.m. MST on February 12, 2026, will remain in effect until 5:00 p.m. MST. Forecasters say snow showers, which briefly subsided in the late morning hours, are expected to increase again later in the day.
Additional snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches are expected for the Wasatch Mountains and Western Uinta Mountains, while the Wasatch Plateau and Book Cliffs could receive 1 to 3 inches.
Areas specifically mentioned in the advisory include: Alta, Brighton, Logan Summit, Mantua, Moon Lake, Mirror Lake Highway, Scofield and Indian Canyon. Higher areas are expected to experience the greatest impacts, with brief periods of moderate to heavy snow possible in the afternoon.
Meteorologists warn that even relatively modest amounts of snow can lead to dangerous road conditions, especially in mountainous terrain where elevation changes and shaded roads allow snow and ice to accumulate quickly. Reduced visibility during heavier snow showers can further complicate travel.
Winter driving conditions are expected, the advisory states, urging motorists to slow down and use caution. Slippery roads, snow-covered surfaces and sudden weather changes can lead to delays and an increased risk of accidents, especially along mountain passes and high-altitude highways.
The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) advises motorists to check road conditions in real time before traveling. Updated traffic and road information is available at udottraffic.utah.gov.
The National Weather Service also provides graphical snowfall forecasts, including official, high-end and low-end accumulation estimates, on its website at Weather.gov/slc/winter.
Winter weather advisories are issued when snow, drifting snow, sleet or freezing rain are expected to cause discomfort and potentially dangerous conditions. While not as serious as a winter storm warning, the advisories indicate caution is needed, especially for those traveling through affected areas.
Utah’s mountainous areas often experience rapidly changing weather patterns during the winter months. An afternoon resurgence of snow showers, after a temporary lull, is common when atmospheric moisture and cold air combine with terrain-driven weather systems. Forecasters emphasize that conditions in these regions can change quickly, making preparation essential.
Residents and visitors planning a trip through the Wasatch or Uinta areas are encouraged to allow extra time, reduce speeds and ensure vehicles are equipped for winter conditions. It is highly recommended that you bring emergency supplies including blankets, water and traction equipment.
The advisory underlines the importance of monitoring updated forecasts throughout the day, as snowfall intensity and coverage can fluctuate. Additional statements or updates may be issued if conditions worsen.
For more information, residents can visit the National Weather Service Salt Lake City office website at Weather.gov/saltlakecity. Travelers are also encouraged to check UDOT resources for the latest road and traffic updates before traveling.
Officials reiterate that caution and preparedness remain the most effective measures to ensure safety during winter weather conditions.
