As Utah braces for a chilly weekend, residents are advised to prepare for cold temperatures and developing air quality issues due to valley inversions. Following a storm that swept through the region, cold air has settled in, prompting concerns about slick roads and decreasing visibility in the coming days. The weather forecast indicates that temperatures in the northern and western valleys will struggle to rise above freezing, creating a stark contrast to the more temperate conditions experienced earlier this week. The National Weather Service reports that lake-effect snow, which has been a hallmark of recent weather patterns south of the Great Salt Lake, is expected to taper off early Friday morning. However, lingering moisture on the roads may present challenges for commuters, leading to potentially hazardous driving conditions. Residents in Washington County should also be aware of gusty winds near the canyons, which are forecasted to diminish shortly after sunrise, offering some relief from the blustery conditions. As the weekend progresses, a high-pressure system will settle over the region, bringing clear skies but also contributing to the development of inversions. Inversions occur when warmer air traps cooler air at the surface, leading to poor air quality and increased valley haze. According to local meteorologists, this phenomenon is expected to worsen as the weekend unfolds, with air quality likely to decline significantly by early next week. Health officials are urging residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions, to monitor air quality reports and limit outdoor activities if necessary. In Salt Lake City, Friday is predicted to be sunny but cold, with high temperatures reaching only the mid-30s. As night falls, the temperature is expected to drop significantly, with lows ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Saturday promises similar conditions, with sunny skies but highs only in the upper 30s. Sunday will follow suit, maintaining mostly sunny weather and similar temperatures, although residents can expect a slight uptick in warmth as the forecast indicates highs approaching the upper 30s. In contrast, St. George will experience a slightly milder weekend. Friday's weather is expected to be sunny and breezy, with northeast winds of 15 to 25 mph in the morning, leading to highs in the low 40s. The air will remain mostly clear Friday night, with temperatures dipping into the mid-20s. Saturday will see a continuation of sunny conditions, with highs in the mid-40s, while Sunday could bring highs nearing 50 degrees, offering a warmer respite for southern Utah residents. As the weekend unfolds, Utahns are reminded to stay informed about local weather conditions. The FOX 13 First Alert Weather app provides real-time updates and forecasts, allowing residents to prepare for the changing conditions. Additionally, interactive radar features are available for tracking weather patterns across the state, ensuring that everyone can stay ahead of any potential weather-related issues. In light of the expected air quality decline, residents are encouraged to sign up for severe weather email alerts and to stay updated on power outages through Rocky Mountain Power. Keeping abreast of traffic updates through FOX 13 News will also be crucial as road conditions may deteriorate due to icy surfaces and poor visibility. In conclusion, as Utah enters a cold and potentially challenging weekend, residents should remain vigilant and prepared for the weather's impact. The combination of low temperatures, slick roads, and air quality concerns underscores the importance of staying informed and taking necessary precautions to ensure safety and well-being during this frigid spell. As always, local news sources will provide ongoing updates to help residents navigate the icy conditions ahead.