Salt Lake City/ Weather & Environment

Wild Weather Whiplash: Salt Lake City Braces for Hail, Sudden Gusts Before Sun Returns

AI Assisted Icon
Published on September 22, 2026
Wild Weather Whiplash: Salt Lake City Braces for Hail, Sudden Gusts Before Sun ReturnsSalt Lake City City Hall Plaza — Salt Lake City Weather Backdrop
Google Street View

Light rain is moving through Salt Lake City early Tuesday, but the bigger weather story is still ahead: showers and thunderstorms are expected to become more widespread from late morning into the afternoon. The city is forecast to reach about 69 degrees Tuesday as clouds and storms build. By Wednesday, the forecast flips back to sunshine.

According to the National Weather Service, Tuesday has a 30% chance of showers between 06–12Z, with afternoon thunderstorms possible. Winds should generally stay light from the southeast, but storms may produce sudden, erratic gusts, brief heavy rain and hail near 1 inch.

Storm Timing Matters For Afternoon Plans

For commuters and outdoor plans, the messiest stretch is likely from late morning through the afternoon. Any storm that forms could bring a quick downpour and sharply stronger winds rather than an all-day soaking.

No watches, warnings or advisories are posted for the area. Still, the broader forecast notes that isolated flash flooding cannot be ruled out, particularly in eastern Utah, so drivers should avoid water-covered roads and stay out of normally dry washes if heavy rain develops.

Sunshine Returns Wednesday

Tuesday night could bring an isolated shower or thunderstorm before midnight, followed by a low near 49 degrees. Wednesday turns sunny with a high near 79, and generally dry, mostly sunny weather is expected after Wednesday, with highs near 73 Thursday, 74 Friday through Saturday and around 81 Sunday.

The latest forecast adds sharper timing and storm-impact details to Monday’s outlook. For Salt Lake City, the message is straightforward: Tuesday is the unsettled day, while the rest of the week looks warmer, brighter and considerably easier to plan around.