Widespread showers and thundershowers are expected over Utah Friday night.
Gusty winds and lightning, which has already claimed three lives and injured four people this year, are expected to accompany some of the thundershowers."People planning outdoor activities (through Friday evening) need to keep a close eye on the weather. Remember, lightning kills . . . If caught outside in thundershowers, seek shelter indoors or in your car. Do not seek shelter beneath isolated trees or near telephone poles," said Edward R. Carle, a lead forecaster at the Salt Lake office of the National Weather Service.
By 9 a.m. Friday some areas in southern and central Utah had received considerable amounts of moisture. Monticello recorded 1.38 inches; Hurricane, 0.53; Hanksville, Wayne County, and Green River, Emery County, both 0.30; and Arches National Park, 0.23, said William J. Alder, meteorologist in charge.
Heavy rain is likely statewide by Friday evening.
Showers are expected to decrease Saturday in the Salt Lake, Ogden and Provo areas. The chance of measurable rain will increase to 70 percent by Friday night, decreasing to 60 percent Saturday, when the temperature will be about 80 degrees.