UPDATED: Red flag warning, wind advisory extended for Southern Utah counties

May 14, 2020 Utah Channel 3

ST. GEORGE — A red flag warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for Washington, Iron, Kane, Garfield and Beaver counties.

Shaded areas denote portions of state affected by red flag warning | Image from National Weather Service-Salt Lake City office, St. George News | Click to enlarge

The warning was originally issues Friday, but on Sunday, the National Weather Service extended the warning to last until 9 p.m. Tuesday. A high wind advisory is also in effect until 9 p.m. Monday.

A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or are imminent. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

According to the National Weather Service, the area will experience southwest winds of 25-35 mph with gusts over 45 mph. The strongest winds are forecast to be Tuesday afternoon.

There will be an 8-14% relative humidity mainly during the afternoon and evening hours.

Critical fire weather conditions are possible, and fire starts could spread rapidly.

The warning affects fire weather zone 495 Color Country west desert, the fire weather zone 498 Grand Staircase, and Fire Weather Zone 497 in the Mojave Desert.

Updated May 18, 9:30 a.m. to reflect extended forecast.