Salt Lake City is starting Friday, July 31, clear and around 73 degrees, but that brief early reprieve will not last. Temperatures are expected to climb to about 102 degrees by afternoon, with patchy wildfire smoke before noon and sunny skies taking over later.
The heat intensifies Saturday, August 1, when the high is forecast near 104 degrees, followed by another 102-degree day Sunday, August 2. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for the Salt Lake Valley from noon Saturday through 9 p.m. Sunday, warning that temperatures could reach 105 degrees and overnight lows in the 70s will provide little relief.
Smoke Clears, But Dry Heat Takes Over
Friday’s smoke should remain patchy and is not expected to significantly reduce visibility, while winds stay generally light at around 5 to 6 mph. Rain is not expected through the weekend, and the combination of hot temperatures, low humidity, and dry vegetation will keep outdoor fire danger elevated.
A weak front should bring some moderation Monday, August 3, with highs near 97 degrees, and Tuesday should be similarly hot. The heat rebounds to about 101 degrees Wednesday and 102 degrees Thursday, while rain chances remain at zero through Wednesday and just 2% Thursday.
Heat Warning Calls For Extra Precautions
Residents should drink plenty of fluids, limit strenuous outdoor activity to early morning or evening, and spend the hottest part of the day in air conditioning or shade. The warning also urges people to check on relatives and neighbors, and never leave children or pets in unattended vehicles.
People without reliable air conditioning can look for public cooling resources through Salt Lake County Emergency Management. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, so anyone showing serious symptoms should be moved to a cool location and receive immediate help.
