Salt Lake City, UT – Severe drought conditions are tightening their grip on Utah, with federal weather officials warning that extreme dryness could expand further into September.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service office in Salt Lake City, severe (D2) to extreme (D3) drought continues to spread across Utah as well as nearby Uinta County, Wyoming. The latest drought impact statement notes that the situation is unlikely to improve in the coming weeks, with soil moisture levels remaining well below seasonal averages.
Officials said soil moisture is a critical factor for runoff efficiency and agricultural sustainability, but it has been persistently low across eastern Utah heading into fall. Reduced soil water content not only hinders farming but also contributes to wildfire risk and strains local water supplies.
The U.S. Drought Monitor shows much of central and eastern Utah shaded in deep orange and red, signaling severe to extreme drought. Western areas of the state are also experiencing widespread moderate drought. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warned that continued hot, dry weather could push more areas into higher drought categories in the coming weeks.
Local water managers are urging residents and farmers to conserve water and prepare for extended dryness. Officials say if conditions persist, the impacts could ripple into winter, reducing snowpack efficiency and long-term water availability.
The National Weather Service said updated drought statements will be issued as conditions change. More information, including the full drought report, is available at weather.gov/slc/DroughtInformationStatement.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant new stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
