ST. GEORGE — Due to extreme heat, high winds and low relative humidity levels being forecast for Southern Utah, the National Weather Service has issued another Fire Weather Watch, this one for Wednesday, July 3.
Southwest winds of 10-20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph are forecasted through Monday evening. For Wednesday, west-northwest winds of 10-20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph are expected. Relative humidity will be as low as 14% overnight and could fall below 10% Wednesday, according to a weather service press release.
The four-county area of Washington, Kane, Garfield and Beaver are all included in the alert and specifically Fire Weather Zone 498 Grand Staircase.
The weather service also provided the following key points:
- A Fire Weather Watch means that there is a potential for critical fire weather conditions.
- Critical fire weather conditions are likely to occur.
- Any new fire starts or existing fires may spread rapidly.
- Continue to monitor for the latest forecasts and for possible Red Flag Warnings.
On Sunday, June 30, a Red Flag Warning was issued for Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane and Washington counties in Southern Utah, and is set to expire at 9 p.m. Monday.
The warning means a combination of extreme warm temperatures, very low humidities and strong winds that combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger.
The National Weather Service provided these tips for ensured summer safety, including:
- 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 three-quarters of an inch in diameter.
- Never throw cigarettes or lit matches out of a moving vehicle. They may ignite dry grass on the side of the road that becomes 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 throw live charcoal in a trash can.
- Never leave a fire unattended. Sparks or embers can blow into leaves or grass, ignite a fire and quickly spread.
- When towing vehicles, ensure all chains are secure and none are dragging on the ground.
- Follow all local regulations when using chainsaws and outdoor gas powered equipment where sparks may be produced during work.
Updated July 1, 2024, 4:45 p.m.: Adds information about July 3 warning.