Utah Breaks 91-Year Temperature Record Alongside Other 2025 Milestones

Utah has shattered a temperature record that has stood for 91 years, marking 2025 as the hottest year since 1934. According to federal climate data released this week, the statewide average temperature for Utah reached 51.9 degrees Fahrenheit, exceeding the previous record of 51.3 degrees established in 1934. This update comes from the National Centers for Environmental Information.

Temperature Overview for 2025

The year 2025 not only broke the record for average temperature but also saw notable shifts in other temperature statistics:

• The average high temperature climbed to 64.9 degrees, breaking another record from 1934.
• The average minimum temperature was recorded at 38.8 degrees, surpassing the previous mark set in 2015.

This climate data spans back to 1895, and it shows that several counties experienced unprecedented temperature rises. However, Box Elder, Carbon, Rich, Sanpete, Sevier, and Tooele counties did not set new average temperature records but had their second-warmest years on record.

Precipitation and Drought Conditions

2025 was also noted as the state’s 14th-driest year, with an average rainfall of just 10.38 inches. Factors contributing to the extreme warmth included weather patterns that prevented significant snowfall and lower snowpack levels, especially in central and southern regions of Utah.

Weather Patterns and Influences

Several weather trends were identified, leading to the warm conditions throughout the year. Key factors included:

• A mild start to the year, characterized by a lack of significant snowfall in Salt Lake City.
• The presence of limited monsoon moisture, which restricted cooling opportunities.
• Temperatures remained warmer than usual during nights and early mornings.

November and December solidified 2025’s standing as a record-breaking year with minimal storms and an influx of warm air from southern regions. These trends resulted in temperatures occasionally being 20 degrees above normal, particularly towards year-end.

Climate Trends and Future Projections

Utah climate experts have noted an alarming trend: nine of the ten warmest years recorded since 1895 have occurred post-2000. This rise in temperatures could significantly impact the state’s water resources. Researchers from the Great Salt Lake Strike Team indicated that rising temperatures are linked to increased evaporation and reduced groundwater storage.

Joel Ferry, director of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, highlighted the impacts of climate change and overconsumption on natural resources. He emphasized the urgent need for the state to develop strategies to address these challenges as warmer temperatures are projected to persist.

In summary, the historic temperature milestones of 2025 in Utah paint a concerning picture of shifting climate patterns, indicating significant changes that require immediate attention and action from state authorities.