Salt Lake City is waking up Wednesday to clear skies and mid‑70s at Salt Lake City International Airport, but the calm start is not expected to last. The valley should warm into the low 90s before scattered showers and thunderstorms bubble up by midday, with activity peaking this afternoon, Wednesday, July 22. The strongest storms could pack brief heavy downpours, gusty outflow winds and localized flooding, especially in canyon corridors and over recent burn scars.
Afternoon Storms And Flash Flood Risk
Storm chances ramp up most quickly between noon and 3 p.m., with coverage building through the afternoon and early evening. The National Weather Service is calling for a high near 93°F and around a 60% chance of precipitation during the peak window, and notes that thunderstorms may deliver heavy rain and erratic, gusty winds. Much of Utah sits in a Slight Risk for excessive rainfall from the Weather Prediction Center, which means some cells could briefly produce rain rates high enough to trigger flash flooding.
Where To Watch
The foothills and canyon corridors are favored for the heaviest downpours. Areas of particular concern include normally dry washes, slot canyons and recent burn scars, where runoff can concentrate fast. Hikers and sightseers are urged to postpone canyon trips and steer clear of low‑lying washes while storms are in play.
Temperatures And The Week Ahead
After a warm Wednesday near 93°F, highs are set to climb into the mid‑90s on Thursday and reach triple digits by Friday as a somewhat drier pattern briefly returns. Monsoonal moisture hangs around into the weekend, so daily afternoon storm chances stick around too, although forecasters expect the flash‑flood threat to gradually ease after Wednesday.
How To Stay Safe Today
If you are planning to be outside, consider shifting activities to early morning or picking a different day, and skip slot‑canyon hikes or any attempt to drive through standing water. Slow down on wet roads, leave extra space for braking, and have more than one way to receive alerts. For local county resources and cooling-center contacts, check our July 21 Hoodline coverage. Always review official forecasts and any watches or warnings before heading out.
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