SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Critical fire weather conditions are set to create a dangerous environment across much of southern and central Utah on Monday, with any new blaze having the potential to spread rapidly.
According to the National Weather Service, a Red Flag Warning has been issued for a vast area from the San Rafael Swell to the Mojave Desert, effective from noon until midnight MDT on Monday. The warning highlights the risk posed by a combination of strong winds and extremely low humidity.
Southwest winds of 10 to 20 mph with gusts reaching up to 35 mph are expected. Compounding the wind threat is a dramatic drop in relative humidity, which could fall as low as 5 percent. Poor overnight humidity recovery will leave fuels exceptionally dry and prone to ignition. The affected regions include Fire Weather Zones 489, 494, 495, 496, 497, and 498, encompassing areas like the Henry Mountains and Grand Staircase.
In neighboring Colorado and eastern Utah, a Red Flag Warning is also in effect for Sunday afternoon, with a Fire Weather Watch issued for Monday. This affects Colorado’s Little Snake and White River forecast areas as well as Utah’s Eastern Uinta Basin and Book Cliffs.
Officials urge extreme caution and advise against any outdoor activities that could create a spark. The critical conditions mean that new and existing fires may exhibit extreme behavior. The warnings remain in effect through Monday night.
