Salt Lake City started Thursday under clear skies with temperatures in the mid-70s, but forecasters say that is the calm before a serious heat spike. Highs are expected to reach around 966F today, with even hotter conditions roaring in this weekend and limited overnight cooling raising the risk of heat-related illness, especially for anyone working or sleeping without reliable air conditioning.
Heat Watch And Timing
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Watch for much of the Wasatch Front, in effect from Saturday, July 11, at noon through Sunday, July 12, at 9 p.m. MDT. Forecasts call for highs near 1046F on Saturday and up to 1066F on Sunday, with overnight lows holding in the upper 60s to low 70s. Those numbers could challenge daily and even monthly records, according to the National Weather Service.
Afternoon Gusts And Near-Term Outlook
Before the weekend peak, temperatures are expected to climb steadily, with highs near 966F on Thursday and around 996F on Friday. Isolated, high-based afternoon storms over the higher terrain are expected to be mostly dry but could trigger sudden outflow winds with gusts over 50 mph. Parts of southern Utah will also be dealing with critical fire weather conditions under this hot, dry pattern.
Where To Cool Off
Salt Lake County runs a network of public "Cool Zones" that offer air conditioning, water, and basic services to help people ride out the worst of the heat. Sites include the Weigand Center at 437 W 200 S and the Gail Miller Resource Center at 242 W Paramount Ave. If you need help finding a nearby location, you can call 211 or check county listings for hours and details, according to Salt Lake County.
Safety Tips
Health officials and forecasters alike are urging residents to drink plenty of water, skip strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the afternoon, and keep a close eye on older relatives, neighbors, and pets. Employers and outdoor crews are advised to shift heavy work to the cooler morning or evening hours, provide shade and frequent water breaks, and never leave people or animals unattended in parked vehicles, even for a short time.
Hoodline Update
We first flagged this warming trend in an earlier update, and this story follows up now that the National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Watch. Read our first alert on this heat wave, as per Hoodline.
