Whipping winds are expected to race down northern Utah’s mountain ranges through Friday afternoon in what’s called a downslope wind event, prompting a wind advisory and high wind warning.
Winds are expected to peak late Thursday in valleys along the northern Wasatch Front. The strongest are expected in Bountiful and Layton, which could see gusts up to 65 mph.
The high wind warning there, and in surrounding areas, is in effect through noon Friday. The National Weather Service issued the wind advisory through 10 a.m. Friday for the Salt Lake Valley and the Logan area, which could see gusts of 55 mph.
The weather service warns that “damaging winds” could blow down trees and power lines, possibly causing power outages. And travel along Interstate 15 in northern Salt Lake, Davis and Weber counties could be difficult because of crosswinds, especially for high-profile vehicles like semitrucks and campers.
Residents are urged to tie down or move outdoor items indoors because the gusts could cause “trampolines, garbage cans, outdoor furniture and other items” to “become projectiles.”
According to the weather service, the low-pressure system causing the high winds “will remain parked across the Great Basin” heading into the weekend, creating “unsettled conditions,” with afternoon showers and thunderstorms. There is a 20% chance of rain in Salt Lake City on Friday afternoon.
The upcoming weekend is otherwise shaping up to be a relatively pleasant one. Temperatures, which have been below normal all week, are expected to rise to normal — even above normal.
In Salt Lake City, the forecast high is 68 on Friday; 72 on Saturday; 77 on Sunday; 79 on Monday; and 77 on both Tuesday and Wednesday. Normal highs for this time of year are 70-72.
There is a 30% chance of rain on Saturday afternoon, then nothing but sunny skies expected through Wednesday.
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