Utah Wildfire Risk Spikes: 35 mph Wind Gusts and Dry Air Trigger Red Flag Warning Through 9PM

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Salt Lake City, Utah – Dry air and gusty winds are creating dangerous fire conditions across northern Utah today, prompting a Red Flag Warning that remains in effect until 9 p.m. Thursday.

According to the National Weather Service in Salt Lake City, the warning covers Fire Weather Zone 478, including the Salt Lake Desert region. Southwest winds from 15 to 20 mph—gusting up to 35 mph—combined with relative humidity as low as 8% are expected to create rapid fire spread potential.

While Salt Lake City residents will see highs near 97°F this afternoon, the bigger threat lies in how fast new or existing fires could expand under today’s weather setup. The fire warning zone includes wide stretches of rural land where ignition sources, such as machinery or open flames, should be avoided. Winds will gradually calm overnight, but humidity will stay low.

Residents are urged to delay any outdoor burning or fire-related activities. Keep emergency kits ready, and report any signs of smoke immediately.

This Red Flag Warning remains in place through 9 p.m. Thursday, with similar conditions possible into the weekend.

Five Day Forecast for Salt Lake City, Utah:

  • Friday: Mostly sunny, high 86°F. Light winds shifting northwest.
  • Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 90°F. Calm early, breezy afternoon.
  • Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 90°F. Slight humidity rise.
  • Monday: Sunny and hot, high 93°F. Dry conditions persist.
  • Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 96°F. Continued fire risk.