The snowstorms that much of Utah experienced yesterday and last night were part of a larger storm that moved across the country. It originated in the North Pole and brought cold air with it – making it a “Polar Vortex.” It’s gonna be a cold weekend, fellow Utahns.

This map released yesterday shows much of Utah was affected by the storm.
National Weather Service
While some places received only a few inches of snow, mountain regions saw several feet of new snow.
While it may seem like just a typical Utah storm, the polar vortex will affect the Beehive State in ways you might not like very much.
Jeremy Taylor/flickr
In addition to shoveling your walk today, you'll likely experience temperatures that are much lower than normal.
A polar vortex occurs when cold air from the North Pole come sweeping in, bringing frigid air with it.
Rajashree Raghavendra/flickr
As of last night, the National Weather Service was forecasting overnight temperatures in the high teens, with highs during the day on Saturday capping out in the low 20s.
If you're planning to travel this weekend, take extra precautions.
Utah Department of Public Safety/Facebook
Roads may be slick and icy, especially on overpasses. The National Weather Service advises that you equip your vehicle with an emergency kit. If you're going skiing this weekend, you'll likely need chains or four-wheel drive to get up the canyons.
All that snow was excellent news for skiers and boarders.
Brighton Resort/Facebook
By late morning yesterday, Brighton had already received 16 inches of fresh powder, with more accumulating during the afternoon and throughout the night. In Utah, there's always a silver lining after a big snow storm!

Do you have big plans this weekend? How will this bitter cold weather affect them? Tell us about it!

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