Manila, Utah – Drivers crossing exposed mountain roads in northeastern Utah could face sudden crosswinds strong enough to push vehicles across lanes beginning midday Saturday as wind gusts climb toward 75 mph in the Eastern Uinta Mountains.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, a High Wind Warning is in effect from noon Saturday until 6 a.m. Sunday for the Eastern Uinta Mountains, including communities near Manila and Dutch John.
West winds are expected to increase to 30 to 40 mph, with powerful gusts reaching 75 mph along exposed ridgelines and open mountain corridors. Winds of this strength can snap tree limbs, topple weak trees, and damage power lines.
Travel near Flaming Gorge Reservoir and along Utah State Route 44 and U.S. Route 191 may become especially difficult during peak wind periods. High-profile vehicles such as campers, RVs, and tractor-trailers are most vulnerable to strong crosswinds in these areas.
Residents and visitors are urged to secure outdoor items before midday Saturday and remain indoors during the strongest wind bursts when possible. Anyone traveling through mountain terrain should be prepared for sudden gusts and blowing debris.
The strongest winds are expected to ease shortly after daybreak Sunday, though additional advisories could be issued if wind conditions intensify across the high terrain.
