Salt Lake City Braces for Sizzling March Heat Wave

Temperatures expected to soar into the 70s and 80s this week, with potential for record highs.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 2:04pm

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Salt Lake City is set to experience an unusually warm stretch of weather this week, with temperatures forecast to climb into the 70s and 80s from March 16-21. The National Weather Service has warned that the building ridge over the West could bring "historically warm" March conditions, with a chance of challenging or breaking monthly records, especially in southern Utah. Sunny, dry afternoons will make outdoor activities tempting, but early mornings and evenings will be more comfortable.

Why it matters

This early-season heat wave is an example of the impacts of climate change, with March temperatures in Salt Lake City potentially reaching levels typically seen much later in the spring or even summer. The warm weather could pose risks for vulnerable populations and require adjustments to outdoor activities and work. It also highlights the need for communities to prepare for more extreme weather events driven by a changing climate.

The details

Temperatures in Salt Lake City are expected to climb steadily throughout the week, reaching highs near 60°F on Monday, 71°F on Tuesday, and 78°F on Wednesday. From Thursday through Saturday, forecast highs are expected to hover around 80°F or slightly warmer, with Friday potentially reaching a high of 82°F, which would set a new March record for the city. Overnight lows are expected to mostly hold in the 40s, and rain chances are expected to remain low during this period. Winds in the Salt Lake Valley are forecast to be light to moderate, although some mountain slopes and basins could see stronger gusts.

  • On Monday, March 16, temperatures are expected to reach a high near 60°F.
  • On Tuesday, March 17, temperatures are forecast to reach a high of around 71°F.
  • On Wednesday, March 18, highs are expected to reach approximately 78°F.
  • From Thursday, March 19 through Saturday, March 21, forecast highs are expected to be around 80°F or slightly warmer, with Friday potentially reaching a high of 82°F.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

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What they’re saying

“The National Weather Service forecast discussion flags the ridge building over the West as strong enough to bring "historically warm" March conditions, with a shot at challenging or breaking monthly records late in the week, especially across southern Utah.”

— National Weather Service (hoodline.com)

What’s next

Forecasters will be closely monitoring the situation and providing updates if the forecast shifts. Residents are advised to review local forecasts before planning any major outdoor events this week.

The takeaway

This early-season heat wave in Salt Lake City is a stark reminder of the impacts of climate change, with March temperatures potentially reaching levels typically seen much later in the spring or summer. The community will need to be prepared to address the risks posed by the extreme heat, including impacts on vulnerable populations and adjustments to outdoor activities and work.