ST. GEORGE — High winds and low relative humidity are forecast across Southern Utah this weekend, prompting a Red Flag Warning from the National Weather Service.
Graphic shows weather forecast for the St. George Area, July 27-28, 2024 | Image courtesy of National Weather Service, St. George News
The warning runs from 10 a.m. Saturday through 10 p.m. Sunday and includes Washington, Iron, Kane, Beaver and Garfield counties.
Winds Saturday will be out of the southwest at 15-25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph. On Sunday, winds will be out of the southwest at 10-20 mph with gusts 25-30mph. Winds are expected to diminish Saturday night before redeveloping early Sunday afternoon, the weather service said.
Relative humidity could drop as low as 6-15%, and predicted daytime high temperatures are 102 for Saturday and 97 for Sunday in St. George.
The Red Flag Warning extends north and east beyond Southern Utah. Specific weather zones impacted by the warning include Nos. 482-484, 488-489 and 492-498. (See accompanying chart.)
Map shows Utah Fire Zones, date not specified | Image courtesy of Utah Fire Info, St. George News
According to the weather service, “A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now … or are imminent. A combination of lightning … dry fuel conditions … and gusty microburst winds will create favorable conditions for new fire starts and extreme fire behavior. Critical fire weather conditions are possible. Any new fire starts or existing fires may spread rapidly.”
The NWS also reminds the public of the following concerning this warning:
A Red Flag Warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger.
If you are allowed to burn in your area, all burn barrels must be covered with a weighted metal cover, with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.
Do not throw cigarettes or matches out of a moving vehicle. They may ignite dry grass on the side of the road and become a wildfire.
Extinguish all outdoor fires properly. Drown fires with plenty of water and stir to make sure everything is cold to the touch. Dunk charcoal in water until cold. Do not throw live charcoal on the ground and leave it.
Never leave a fire unattended. Sparks or embers can blow into leaves or grass, ignite a fire, and quickly spread.