Salt Lake City, UT – Strong thunderstorms are developing across northern Utah Friday afternoon, bringing the threat of hail, damaging winds, and frequent lightning as the system spreads eastward into the evening.
According to the National Weather Service Salt Lake City office, showers and thunderstorms will continue through Friday evening across northern and eastern Utah and into southwest Wyoming. Some storms may intensify, with forecasters warning of wind gusts over 55 mph and hail larger than one inch.
Radar projections show a broad band of heavy precipitation moving with a cold front overnight. This system is expected to last into early Saturday morning, raising travel concerns for late commuters and overnight drivers. The strongest storms could bring sudden downpours and reduced visibility on major highways, including I-15 and I-80.
Meteorologists caution that while only a 5% chance exists for the most severe gusts and hail, storms are likely to remain strong enough to disrupt outdoor events and local travel. Residents are urged to monitor weather alerts and seek shelter indoors when thunder is heard.
The storm system will shift east by Saturday, but lingering showers may persist in higher elevations. Travelers across Utah and Wyoming should plan for delays and changing road conditions into the weekend.
