Salt Lake City Braces for Windy Weekend After Spring Tease

Highs near 75°F Thursday, but gusty winds and rain likely this weekend.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A vast, majestic landscape painting depicting a dramatic, windswept storm system moving over the Salt Lake City valley, with deep atmospheric perspective and dramatic backlighting that emphasizes the overwhelming scale of the natural forces at play.As a powerful storm system approaches Salt Lake City, the natural world's raw, sublime power dwarfs the urban landscape below.Salt Lake City Today

Salt Lake City is set to experience a brief spring-like warmup on Thursday, with highs near 75°F and a slight chance of isolated showers. However, a Pacific system is expected to bring gusty winds, rain, and mountain snow to the region this weekend, with the strongest winds forecast for Saturday afternoon.

Why it matters

Sudden shifts in weather patterns can impact outdoor activities, transportation, and public safety in the Salt Lake City area. Residents and visitors need to be prepared for the changing conditions to ensure their safety and comfort.

The details

On Thursday, April 9, Salt Lake City will see mostly cloudy skies with mild morning temperatures in the 50s, warming to the mid-70s by afternoon. There is a slight chance of scattered showers or thunderstorms later in the day. However, the bigger story is the incoming Pacific system that will bring stronger winds and a mix of valley rain and mountain snow starting late Friday and continuing through the weekend.

  • Thursday, April 9: Highs near 75°F, slight chance of showers after midday.
  • Saturday afternoon: 40-50% chance of wind gusts over 45 mph across Utah's West Desert.
  • Sunday-Monday, April 13: Valley rain and mountain snow above 6,000-9,000 feet.

The players

National Weather Service

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

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Residents and visitors should monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for changing conditions, especially on Saturday when gusty winds are expected. Those with outdoor plans should secure loose items and use caution when traveling, especially on canyon routes.

The takeaway

The sudden shift from a spring-like warmup to a windy, wet weekend highlights the unpredictable nature of weather in Salt Lake City. Residents and visitors must stay vigilant and prepared for rapid changes in the forecast to ensure their safety and comfort.