Salt Lake City woke up Tuesday, June 23, to patchy smoke and a cool start, but the break will not last long. Highs are expected to surge into the mid‑90s, topping out around 96°F, with mostly sunny skies and light afternoon breezes. Smoke could hang near the foothills and leave parts of the valley under a hazy veil through the day.
Afternoon Heat And Fire Risk
Daytime temperatures are running 5–10°F above normal through Friday, which is enough to raise concerns about heat‑related illness in valley neighborhoods. A Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon to 10 p.m. Tuesday, June 23, for parts of the forecast area. Hot, dry air paired with gusty winds will push fire danger higher.
Moisture moving in on Wednesday brings a slight chance of high‑based showers and thunderstorms, mainly over higher terrain. Any storms that do form could throw lightning into very dry landscapes and spark new fires. By Friday into Saturday, very dry southwest flow may kick up gusts near 50 mph and create widespread critical fire weather conditions, according to the National Weather Service.
What To Do
For now, this is a day to be strategic about the heat. Try to shift outdoor plans to the early morning or late evening, drink plenty of water, and check in on elderly or medically vulnerable neighbors. If the smoke irritates you, limit time outside and keep windows closed.
Salt Lake County lists local cooling centers and related resources for those who need a break from the heat. While the Red Flag Warning is active, officials urge residents to skip open burning, fireworks, and any activities that might send off sparks.
Looking Ahead
Wednesday brings a slight chance of afternoon and evening storms mainly over the higher terrain, but most valley spots should stay dry. Temperatures will hold near or above the mid‑90s through Friday before a strong cold front late Saturday into Sunday drags in much cooler air and even a chance of patchy frost in the highest valleys.
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