This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2012, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The combination of high winds, hot temperatures and dry vegetation could be the perfect combination to spark a wildfire at the beginning of the week.
The National Weather Service has issued a red-flag warning for much of western Utah beginning Monday at 3 p.m., and lasting through Tuesday until 10 p.m. Experts say wind, heat and low humidity in the west desert area under 5,000 feet and Tooele Valley could spread a wildfire quickly.
Temperatures are expected to hit at least 90 degrees on Monday statewide, which has prompted a hazardous weather outlook warning for the Salt Lake City and central Utah areas. Windy weather and dry temperatures could be hazardous for fires in those areas, the weather service said, adding the reminder that creeks and rivers are still running swift and cold, and children and pets should be kept away from the waters.
After a hot Monday, temperatures are expected to dip in northern Utah on Tuesday, with a high around 77 degrees in most areas. Thunderstorms and rainy weather are possible Wednesday, with an average high expected to be about 64 degrees.
Southern Utah will remain in the 80s and 90s through the beginning of the week.
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