Salt Lake City started Tuesday, May 26, on a soggy note, with light rain, a steady southeast breeze and temperatures lounging in the low 60s. Do not get too attached to the calm. The valley is expected to warm into the mid 80s this afternoon, and scattered showers with a chance of thunderstorms are on tap from midday into the afternoon. Secure loose outdoor items now and be ready for brief downpours during the afternoon commute.
Afternoon Storms And The Drive Home
A slight chance of morning showers will linger, but the main action is expected between about noon and 3 p.m. Tuesday, with the best storm coverage over the higher terrain east of I-15. Temperatures should top out near 84°F, then ease into the low 80s later in the afternoon.
Any storm that pops could bring brief heavy rain, lightning, and sudden gusty winds. If you are heading to the canyons for an afternoon hike, you will want to be off exposed ridgelines if clouds start stacking up overhead.
Winds Crank Up Across The Valleys
Southerly winds are expected to increase Tuesday afternoon and could gust even stronger in and near thunderstorms. Gusts may be strongest over western and southwest Utah, where winds up to 50 mph are possible.
The National Weather Service has a Wind Advisory in effect Tuesday, May 26, from noon through midnight for parts of western Utah and valley corridors, so watch for blow-around debris and slower traffic for high-profile vehicles in exposed areas. Secure patio furniture and tie down trailers before midafternoon if you do not want to chase them down the street.
Fire Weather Watch For Central And Southern Utah
A Fire Weather Watch is posted from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday evening (May 27–28) for portions of central and southern Utah, where a drying trend plus gusty winds could create critical fire conditions if fuels are dry. The watch does not currently include the Salt Lake Valley, but residents with plans in southern valleys or along canyon rims should check local restrictions and avoid open burning.
For the latest restrictions and orders, see Utah Fire Info. Local agencies may issue burn bans or additional advisories if conditions worsen.
Through The Rest Of The Week
By late Thursday into Friday (May 28–29), a trough is expected to cool the region and bring a renewed chance of scattered showers and cooler daytime highs before a drying trend returns for the weekend. For daily updates and any changes to advisories, check the National Weather Service and local fire authorities before travel or outdoor plans.
If you have flights booked, keep an eye on airline status, since gusty winds and isolated convection could still cause delays.
