Utah braces for extreme heat and elevated wildfire risk
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Salt Lake City: ABC4 meteorologists warned Utah residents Monday and Tuesday that a dangerous heat wave will build this week, with daytime highs in northern valleys reaching the mid-to-upper 90s and southern Utah, including St. George, Zion and Moab, climbing into the 100°–105° range or higher by the weekend.
The forecasts on Tuesday said isolated high-based thunderstorms and gusty southerly winds could produce dry lightning and gusts up to 60 mph, prompting the Storm Prediction Center to outline a level 1 marginal risk and the issuance of Red Flag Warnings for portions of central and southern Utah for Tuesday and Wednesday; agencies advised monitoring conditions.
More context
Timeline
- 1. Monday: ABC4 reports mid-to-upper 90s across northern Utah and 100°–105° in southern valleys.
- 2. Monday: SPC issues a level 1 'Marginal' risk for northern Utah for isolated high-based storms.
- 3. Tuesday: Forecasts note continued dry thunderstorms, gusty winds, and single-digit humidities in southern Utah.
- 4. Tuesday: Red Flag Warnings issued for portions of central and southern Utah for Tuesday–Wednesday.
- 5. Friday–Weekend: Warming trend expected to produce the most extreme heat of the week.
Why it matters
This heatwave poses a safety risk. Extreme temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses. If you're in Utah, stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities. The elevated wildfire risk means you should also be prepared to evacuate if necessary. Check your emergency supplies today.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
