SOUTHERN UTAH – The National Weather Service in Salt Lake City has continued its heat advisory in effect through 9 p.m. on Wednesday. It has also issued a Red Flag warning for critical fire weather conditions in effect throughout Color Country west desert area through 9 p.m. Sunday.
• Affected area:
Heat Advisory – Utah’s Dixie and Zion National Park including the St. George area, south central Utah and Glen Canyon Recreation Area / Lake Powell; including the cities of St. George, Kanab, Escalante and Bullfrog.
Red Flag Alert – Color Country west desert area (Fire Weather Zone 495 – see map inset) below 6,000 feet.
• Temperatures:
St. George area is expected to see high temperatures between 110 degrees and 115 through Wednesday.
Outside of St. George expect temperatures between 105 degrees and 110 degrees through Wednesday.
Overnight low temperatures will remain between 75 degrees and 80 degrees in the St. George and Lake Powell areas during this period.
• Thunderstorms:
Isolated to scattered dry thunderstorms will occur across the western valleys this afternoon and evening before diminishing by midnight; these will redevelop again Sunday afternoon and evening.
• Outflow winds:
Gusty and erratic outflow winds in excess of 40 mph are possible near thunderstorm activity.
• Impacts: Children, the elderly and people with chronic illness are the most susceptible to heat-related illness.
Animals and pets are vulnerable to illness and even death as a result of extreme heat.
Heat exhaustion cramps or in extreme cases heat stroke can result from prolonged exposure to these conditions.
New fire starts are possible due to lightning combined with the extended hot and dry conditions.
• Precautionary/preparedness actions:
Friends, relatives and neighbors should check on people and pets that may be at risk.
Never leave children or pets in cars for any length of time, as dangerous temperatures will occur very quickly.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside.
When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
To reduce risk during outdoor work the Occupational Safety and Health administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency – call 911.
Observe current rules and restrictions for fireworks and fire safety:
St. George News Fire Restrictions Guide for Southern Utah 2013
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