Heavy snow is expected in the Wasatch Back Mountains through Friday

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for portions of the Wasatch Back from 6 p.m. Thursday through 9 p.m. Friday.

Heavy snow will fall in the Wasatch Mountains south of Interstate 80. After 8 p.m. Thursday, one to two inches per hour is likely.

The weather service says up to 8 to 16 inches of snow could accumulate at elevations up to 5,000 feet, with more than 18 inches possible in the upper Cottonwoods.

10 to 20 inches of snow will also fall around the Mirror Lake Highway, and up to 2 feet of snow could accumulate in the Uintas high country.

ABC4 meteorologist Nate Larson said it will also snow in Park City.

“With Park City at approximately 7,000 feet, we expect one to three inches of snow to accumulate, with some of those colder temperatures arriving early Friday morning.”

At lower altitudes like Heber, less snow falls.

Larson said the storm system will exit the Wasatch Back sooner than expected.

“A lot of the moisture will evaporate,” he said. “Should extend across far southern Utah over the weekend, and there really isn't much threat to anything in the Wasatch Back area now as the storm continues to move south and east.”

The weather service reports that wintry driving conditions are expected on all mountain routes and recommends travelers keep a flashlight and food and water in their vehicles in case of an emergency.

National Weather Service senior meteorologist Monica Traphagan said conditions could be dangerous for anyone exposed to the elements, especially in the backcountry.

Once the storm passes, it could be a while before another storm returns to the Wasatch Back, according to the weather service.