As Utah faces varying temperature levels across the state, health officials are warning residents that extreme heat increases the risk of severe illness and urging the public to monitor hydration, seek air-conditioned spaces, and watch for symptoms of overheating.
Understanding Extreme Heat Risks
The Utah Department of Health and Human Services noted in a July 20, 2026, update that high temperatures can harm both physical and mental health, particularly when exacerbated by poor air quality. The agency emphasized that heat does not affect all individuals equally, as impact depends on age, location, and access to air conditioning.
Extreme heat is specifically defined by the state as weather featuring high heat and humidity with temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit for at least two to three days, or weather that is significantly more humid than usual for the local time of year. The Utah Department of Health and Human Services warned that regular heat—not just extreme heat—can still cause negative health effects.
Vulnerable Populations at Risk
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued guidance on July 20, 2026, stating that while anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, certain populations face significantly higher risks. These vulnerable groups include infants, young children, pregnant women, and people aged 65 or older.
Individuals with specific medical conditions are also at greater risk, including those with asthma—particularly children and teens—and people living with heart disease or other chronic health conditions. The CDC further noted that certain medications can increase the risk of dehydration or overheating, advising patients not to stop or change their prescriptions without consulting a doctor.
Hydration and Monitoring Strategies
To maintain hydration, health experts recommend drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day without waiting until the sensation of thirst occurs. The Utah Department of Health and Human Services cautioned that feeling thirsty is a sign that dehydration has already begun.
The CDC suggested carrying a water bottle and refilling it regularly, while advising residents to consider limiting beverages that are high in caffeine, alcohol, or sugar and sodium. A helpful indicator for monitoring hydration levels is urine color; the CDC noted that light yellow or clear urine usually indicates sufficient water intake.
Indoor and Outdoor Cooling Methods
Effective cooling strategies involve both indoor and outdoor adjustments. For those outdoors, particularly when HeatRisk levels reach 'red' or higher, the CDC recommends staying in the shade as much as possible, taking frequent breaks, and scheduling outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day or evening.
When indoors, the CDC advised using fans only if temperatures are below 90 degrees Fahrenheit, noting that fans can actually increase body temperature when it is hotter than 90 degrees. For those without air conditioning, the Utah Department of Health and Human Services suggested seeking out public buildings such as libraries, shopping malls, or senior centers. In Salt Lake County, residents can specifically look for designated 'Cool Zones.'
Recognizing Heat Illness Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of heat-related illness is critical for preventing more severe outcomes. The Utah Department of Health and Human Services identified a progression of illnesses ranging from mild to deadly, including heat rash, heat cramps, heat dizziness, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
The CDC listed specific physical warning signs that include muscle cramping, dizziness, headaches, weakness, nausea, shortness of breath, and unusually heavy sweating. The agency also recommended checking on family, friends, and neighbors—especially those living alone or with chronic medical problems—as well as checking on pets.
Preventative Measures and Planning
Additional precautions include wearing lightweight, loose, and lightly colored clothing to help the body stay cool, according to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services. The agency also advised avoiding hard physical activity during the hottest window of the day, typically between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Residents are encouraged to use tools like the CDC HeatRisk Dashboard to enter their zip code for localized heat and air quality forecasts. Furthermore, because heat waves can cause power outages, officials recommend having a plan for managing refrigerated medications and electronic medical devices.
