How to stay safe on the road during monsoon season downpours

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Highway Patrol is telling drivers to ensure they’re ready in case of a sudden storm as we deal with monsoon season. Meteorologist Matt Johnson said storms Wednesday brought “serious amounts of water to the Wasatch Front.”

Magna and West Valley got over 2.5″ of rainfall and even St. George was soaked after .42″.

Wednesday’s severe thunderstorm complex brought some SERIOUS amounts of water to the Wasatch Front. #utwx ⛈️🌊 pic.twitter.com/60bjTNGIQa

— Matthew Johnson (@KSL_Matt) August 3, 2023

 

With monsoon season arriving in the Beehive State, there is a chance of sudden and severe thunderstorms. These storms could result in hydroplaning and not being able to see as you drive.

For those caught in sudden downpours on the road, UHP Sgt. Justin Adams recommendations.

“The first is to stay calm,” he said. “The second is to let off the gas and reduce your speed.”

Adams said slowing your speed is probably the biggest way to combat the dangerous driving conditions. 

He said if you can’t continue driving safely, then it is okay to pull over to the side of the road. But he said you should try and get off the freeway as soon as you can.

“If you need to pull to the side of the road for a brief moment to gather yourself, that’s welcomed as well.”

Adams said you can improve your chances of staying safe by preparing ahead of time. For instance, checking things like windshield wipers, tires and brakes before getting caught in a storm.

Related:

• Thunderstorms moving across northern Utah; severe thunderstorm warnings issued
• What monsoon season means for Utah
• Officials warn of flash flooding in national parks, here’s what to look out for