'Significant' winter storm due to pounce on northern Utah

SALT LAKE CITY — The brown landscapes of northern Utah may well turn white with the advent of a "significant" winter storm due to arrive Wednesday afternoon or evening.

The National Weather Service said a moist westerly flow will deliver substantial snowfall to the mountains of northern Utah and bring welcome moisture to the valley floors.

In a briefing delivered Tuesday afternoon, the agency said 12 to 18 inches of snow is possible in the storm that is expected to linger off and on through Monday.

Cache Valley could receive 3 to 8 inches, Ogden Valley may have 5 to 10 inches and the Wasatch Front valley floors could get up to 6 inches of snow before the storm rolls out next week.

The storm will arrive in the late afternoon or early evening hours, with snow at some point turning to rain.

By Thursday morning, as much as 10 to 16 inches of snow could be delivered to the mountains.

The agency said the biggest concern that accompanies the storm is the escalation of avalanche danger, with the fresh powder being deposited on top of old, weakened snowpack.

Anyone with backcountry interests should consult with the Utah Avalanche Center before venturing out.

For up to date weather forecasts, visit the KSL weather report.

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