Experts say this week’s warm temperatures shouldn’t cause flooding problems

SALT LAKE CITY — The sudden warm temperatures this week will cause most of our remaining valley snow to melt. Luckily, experts aren’t expecting any flooding problems.

National Weather Service Hydrologist Glen Merrill said the reason is that we don’t have much snow left at the lower elevations.

“We’re not expecting anything near any flooding concerns or significantly large rises, Merrill said. “Those will wait and come later in the season.”

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Merrill said it will stay cool enough in the mountains that the snow won’t start to melt just yet. However, some rivers and streams could be flowing higher than normal this time of year.

“It’s more just having, you know, an understanding and normal caution (that if) any river’s flowing faster than they have been, that that water’s going to be extremely cold.”

Merrill said it’s still a good idea to exercise caution as you get outside to enjoy the sunshine. And if you’re headed out hiking, you’ll most likely run into some muddy trails.

West Jordan’s Information Officer Marie Magers said they are keeping an eye on the Jordan River levels, as well as nearby low-lying tails.

“Right now it’s not closed, but there is a detour for if it does become flooded,” Magers said.

Merrill said we generally see flooding in late May, but the long-term outlook is shows a warmer-than-usual spring.

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