Salt Lake City is in for a sharp weather pivot Wednesday: scattered showers and thunderstorms could interrupt the day before a stretch of triple-digit heat takes over the valley. The forecast calls for a high near 93 degrees, followed by highs of 98 Thursday and 104 or higher from Friday through the weekend.
Early Wednesday conditions at Salt Lake City International Airport were clear, around 82 degrees, with south winds near 25 mph. Clouds and scattered rain showers are expected to spread across the area through the morning and afternoon, with a 30% chance of precipitation and temperatures easing slightly after reaching the low 90s.
Storms Could Bring Heavy Rain And Sudden Gusts
The National Weather Service in Salt Lake City says monsoonal moisture moving north will raise the risk of thunderstorms capable of producing brief heavy rain and flash flooding. Storms may also generate lightning and erratic outflow winds of 40 to 50 mph, making conditions change quickly for drivers, hikers, and anyone spending time outdoors.
Showers and thunderstorms could linger into Wednesday evening before tapering off, with an overnight low near 69 degrees. No watches or warnings are listed in the current forecast, but a downpour in a short period could still create problems in low-lying areas and along normally dry waterways, the National Weather Service said.
Triple-Digit Heat Arrives Thursday
The storm chances drop sharply Thursday as skies turn sunny and the high reaches about 98 degrees. Friday is expected to hit 104, Saturday could reach 106, and Sunday may again top out near 104 before temperatures ease only slightly to around 100 Monday and 101 Tuesday.
Overnight relief will be limited during the hottest part of the stretch, with lows in the 70s and Saturday night potentially staying near 77 degrees. Forecasters are also warning that the combination of extreme heat, dry air, and low humidity will increase heat-related illness and fire-weather concerns across Utah.
Plan Around The Heat And Storm Timing
Wednesday outdoor plans should include a way to get indoors quickly if thunder develops, while the best window for strenuous work later in the week will be early morning. Drink water regularly, take breaks in shade or air conditioning, and never leave people or pets in a parked vehicle as the valley heads toward its hottest weekend of the summer.
