Locally critical fire weather conditions are expected to develop across parts of southern and eastern Utah this afternoon. According to the National Weather Service in Salt Lake City, these conditions are being driven by continued dry conditions and breezy winds.
Regional Fire Weather Risks
In southern and eastern Utah, breezy southwesterly winds combined with critically dry conditions will create fire weather risks throughout the afternoon. Meanwhile, northern Utah may experience isolated afternoon convection through Friday, which has the potential to produce gusty outflow winds.
Friday High Pressure Development
High pressure is expected to develop across the western United States on Friday. While this development will bring lighter winds statewide, dry conditions are expected to continue. Another round of afternoon convection is possible in far northern Utah, bringing similar concerns regarding dry lightning strikes and gusty outflow winds.
Weekend Warming Trend Forecast
The warming trend is projected to continue into the weekend as high pressure amplifies. This will result in very dry conditions and poor overnight recoveries. Temperatures are expected to gradually increase across the state heading into early next week.
Specific Regional Temperature Details
In specific regions such as the San Rafael Swell, temperatures could reach between 86 and 92 degrees near 5000 feet today, with humidity levels as low as 6 to 12 percent. The Mojave Desert is also seeing high temperatures ranging from 89 to 97 degrees near 3000 feet.
Long-Term Weather Outlook
The eight to fourteen day outlook for July 9 through July 15 indicates that temperatures will remain above normal, while precipitation is expected to be near normal.
