Wasatch Window Weather: We did it, Joe

We did it... finally, a significant winter storm for Utah. The storm cycle Monday through Thursday morning (2/16-2/19/2026) of this week produced heavy snowfall and appreciable accumulations across much of the state, specifically, the Wasatch Front. It was the storm people have been dreaming and praying for all season, and by the numbers it almost seems like it may be this winter's savior. Unfortunately - by the numbers - that is not the case, but for the moment let's just appreciate the return winter and enjoy the benefits.

The Storm in Short Review

There's lots to talk about this past weeks storm of the winter, but I am going to go against the urge to delve deep into the details and keep this one simple.

A front and accompanying band of heavy snow pushed across the state Wednesday morning into the afternoon. While the initial precipitation along this frontal band was heavy, the true heroes of this storm were the orographic and lake enhanced snow showers behind the front. Not many storms this winter have been able to bring in both cold air and moisture from the northwest, which is typically what the Wasatch does best in. Wednesday's storm was able to accomplish this, and for the first time this season we actually witnessed the Wasatch Front winter weather machine in true form.

Snow and precip totals (in) across the Wasatch mountains 2/16-2/19/2026

Snowfall rates over the course of Wednesday often exceeded 1-2"/hr, which is very heavy and essentially whiteout or near whiteout conditions. Rates and snow accumulations were so heavy that ski resorts had to close and the canyon chaos reached peak levels. Other mountain routes also saw dangerous winter driving conditions, with UDOT busy managing slide offs, crashes, and stuck vehicles. Snow totals from the storm are listed and visualized above and below. But some of the big winners - to no surprise - were Alta, Snowbird, and Brighton, with 36"+ inches of snow observed at each location through the storm cycle. Snow ratios averaged between 10:1 to 15:1 through Wednesday,

Wasatch Front valley and mountain snow totals (in) 2/16-2/19/2026

Going Forward

Today, northern Utah is getting a bit of a drive by as a weaker system grazes the area. Periods of generally light snow showers will be focused in the mountains, with a few inches of very light 20:1 ratio snow possible. Some heavier bursts are possible going into late morning and afternoon as conditions destabilize a bit. A nice refresher. Going into the weekend, a ridge builds over the state with sunshine and moderating temperatures expected. Looks like some great weather to safely get out into the mountains. There is the potential for a storm early to mid next week, but generally things look to once again be warmer going forward and we once again could be dealing with high snow levels. But we will see. The return to true winter may be short lived for now.

With all the greatness of deep powder also comes the danger. Mass accumulations of snow in a short time can create dangerous avalanche conditions, and that is the case in the Wasatch after this last storm. Avalanche danger is high and with the snow drought this winter many are itching to get out and enjoy the fresh powder, which is a bad recipe. Reposting a message and forecast avalanche rose from the Utah Avalanche Center forecast this morning (2/20/2026):

"Most accidents and fatalities happen after peak instability. Let’s not add to that number going into this weekend. Return home safely at the end of the day. Avalanche terrain can be avoided, and excellent riding is available on lower-angled slopes. Remember, once you leave a ski resort boundary, you are in the backcountry."