High Wind in Grand Flat and Arches, Utah

The KCNY ASOS at Canyonlands Airport, about 10 miles north of Moab, UT, recorded two wind gusts to 61 mph on the afternoon of the 18th. The first occurred at 2:15 PM MDT, and the second at approximately 3:00 PM MDT. These gusts were likely enhanced by a passing shower associated with the cold front, as no strong gusts were recorded after this. However, prior to these peak gust, recorded gusts across the zone ranged from 45-55 mph. No reports of injuries, damages, or fatalities were received.

As is often the case, this high wind event was precipitated by an approaching strong low pressure system, with an associated strong upper level jet and cold front helping to enhance south to southwesterly winds out ahead of it. In addition, showers that formed along and ahead of the cold front helped to produce enhanced gusts across the lower desert valleys. Wind gusts of 45-55 mph were common across the lower elevations, with a few stronger gusts recorded.