Wind gusts over 60 mph forecast for western Utah

A wind advisory from the National Weather Service means that sustained wind speeds of at least 31 mph or gusts of 45 mph are expected. Motorists should be prepared for sudden gusty crosswinds as driving may be difficult. Those driving high-profile vehicles and pulling trailers should take extra caution as those vehicles can be more vulnerable to crosswinds. This composite image includes a file photo of a semitractor-trailer overturned on the interstate. | Composite image, St. George News

ST. GEORGE – The National Weather Service in Salt Lake City has issued a “High Wind Warning” for western and southwestern Utah through 10 p.m. Monday.

Northern Washington County through the western two-thirds of the Utah-Idaho border will be affected by the warning.

Affected Areas

Map showing the affected areas for a high wind warning effective through 10 p.m. Monday, Undated | Map courtesy of National Weather Service, St. George News
Map showing the affected areas for a high wind warning effective through 10 p.m. Monday, Undated | Map courtesy of National Weather Service, St. George News

Areas projected to be impacted by high winds include southwest Utah, west-central Utah, the Cache Valley, the Wasatch Front and the Great Salt Lake desert.

This includes the cities of Cedar City, Beaver, Fillmore, Milford, Delta, Logan, Smithfield, Brigham City, Odgen, Bountiful, Salt Lake City, Tooele, Lehi, Provo, Nephi, Wendover and Snowville.

Winds

High-based showers and dry thunderstorms will pose a periodic threat of local severe winds. Wind speeds are estimated to exceed 60 mph at times in certain areas.

Impacts

Strong cross winds are forecast at times for all routes in the warning area. Those operating high-profile vehicles or towing trailers are especially impacted. Residents should store any loose items around the yard that could potentially become airborne from a sudden, strong wind gust.

Precautionary and preparedness actions

A high wind warning means a hazardous high wind event is expected or is occurring. Sustained wind speeds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or more can lead to property damage.

Vehicles, especially high-profile vehicles, can be difficult to control at times in high winds. Motorists should take extra caution, especially while crossing bridges, overpasses and unsheltered areas.

The strong winds will create dangerous boating conditions on area lakes. These winds will create very choppy water and generate large waves which could capsize or swamp small craft. For your personal safety, operators of small craft are urged to postpone their outings until the winds subside.

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