Salt Lake City, Utah – Much of Utah will be under a Red Flag Warning Thursday as dry thunderstorms and gusty outflow winds raise the risk of new wildfires. The National Weather Service warns that critical fire weather conditions will develop from noon to 9 p.m., especially in the Wasatch Mountains, Uinta Mountains, and across several national forests.
According to the National Weather Service in Salt Lake City, scattered thunderstorms will form over higher terrain Thursday afternoon, drifting into surrounding valleys. While little to no rain is expected, lightning strikes could ignite new fires, especially given Utah’s prolonged dry stretch. Outflow winds could gust up to 50 mph, creating dangerous, fast-moving fire behavior.
Areas under the warning include the Salt Lake Desert, Manti National Forest, San Rafael Swell, Henry Mountains, Color Country Mountains, and the Grand Staircase. Officials urge residents and visitors to avoid any activities that could spark flames, secure outdoor equipment, and report smoke immediately.
Critical fire weather conditions are expected to subside Thursday night, but additional warnings may be issued if dry, unstable conditions persist.
