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Critical Fire Weather and Strong Thunderstorms Forecast for Utah

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A close-up of dry, sun-baked desert soil with deep fissures, set against a backdrop of dark, swirling storm clouds gathering over Utah mountains at twilight, symbolizing the tension between drought and incoming storms.
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Significant critical fire weather conditions will persist across areas south of I-80 through Saturday evening as southwest winds gust to 50 mph. A strong cold front is also expected to move through northern and central Utah, bringing much cooler temperatures.

Key takeaways

  • Critical fire weather continues south of I-80 with 50 mph wind gusts possible.
  • Strong thunderstorms may impact northern Utah and southwest Wyoming this afternoon.
  • A cold front will bring significantly cooler temperatures to northern and central Utah through Sunday.
  • A warming trend will return mid-week, potentially bringing more fire weather threats by Thursday.

Widespread and significant critical fire weather conditions are expected to continue through Saturday across areas south of I-80. Southwest winds may reach gusts of 50 mph while relative humidity remains below 15 percent.

Severe Thunderstorm Forecast

In addition to the fire threat, strong thunderstorms are forecast for northern Utah and far southwest Wyoming this afternoon. These storms could bring heavy rain, lightning, large hail, and winds exceeding 50 mph.

Incoming Cold Front Transition

A strong cold front is projected to cross northern and central Utah from this afternoon through tonight. This transition will usher in much cooler air, with Sunday temperatures expected to run 20 to 25 degrees below normal for northern Utah and 10 to 15 degrees below normal for central and southwest Utah.

Active Red Flag Warnings

In the southern regions, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect for areas including the Swell, Canyonlands, and eastern Grand Staircase through Sunday evening. The dry airmass has already contributed to active fires, such as the Wild Goose fire near Scipio.

Upcoming Weekly Weather Outlook

Looking ahead to the upcoming week, high pressure is expected to trigger a warming trend. By mid-week, hot and dry conditions are forecast to return. Increasing southwest winds may bring another round of critical fire weather conditions across much of the area on Thursday and Friday.

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