Image Source: ABC4 Utah
National Weather Service officials confirmed Friday that a tornado touched down near Fruit Heights in Davis County as powerful thunderstorms moved across northern Utah. The unusual high-elevation tornado was supported by video evidence, radar data and reports from weather spotters.
The tornado reportedly touched down near Bair Canyon, along a ridgeline extending west from Francis Peak. According to the National Weather Service, the touchdown occurred shortly after 1:50 p.m. at an elevation of about 7,500 feet.
National Weather Service Confirms Rare Mountain Tornado
Video sent to KSL Weather by TJ Ward appeared to show rotation reaching the ground, with debris being lifted into the air. The footage circulated widely online after the storm passed through the area.
Forecasters said the video and radar evidence provided enough information to confirm tornadic activity. However, officials have not yet determined the tornado’s final strength. Investigators are expected to review damage in the area before issuing an official rating.
KSL meteorologist Matt Johnson said the tornado could ultimately be classified between EF-0 and EF-2 on the Enhanced Fujita Scale. The rating system measures tornado strength based primarily on damage to structures, trees and other objects.
Powerful Storm Ingredients Came Together
Johnson explained that atmospheric conditions were especially favorable for severe weather Friday. A low-pressure system moving toward Utah from the Pacific Northwest collided with subtropical moisture moving north from the southwest.
That setup created wind shear and instability, two ingredients that can help thunderstorms grow stronger and develop rotation. Johnson said strong lift formed over the Great Salt Lake before the storm split as it moved through Davis County.
Weather monitoring sites detected opposing wind signals near Fruit Heights, another indication that the storm was rotating. Johnson said the surrounding mountains may have limited the storm’s size and intensity.
- The tornado touched down near a summit at approximately 7,500 feet.
- Video showed rotation reaching the ground and debris being lofted.
- Forecasters said the tornado may receive an EF-0 to EF-2 rating.
- The National Weather Service issued severe weather warnings across the region.
78 MPH Winds and Large Hail Reported
The tornado was part of a broader severe weather event that affected communities along the Wasatch Front. Wind gusts between 50 and 65 mph were reported in areas north of Salt Lake County.
A peak wind gust of 78 mph was recorded near Legacy Highway in West Bountiful. Residents across Davis County also reported large hail, with some stones appearing to be golf ball-sized or larger.
Utah transportation cameras showed ponding along sections of I-15 after heavy rain moved through. The National Weather Service also issued flood advisories, watches and warnings for parts of the Wasatch Front, central Utah and eastern Utah.
Additional videos appeared to show a funnel cloud moving through Davis County after forming near the Great Salt Lake. It remained unclear whether the funnel touched down at other locations in the valley.
Utah Tornado Activity Remains Uncommon
Friday’s tornado warning was only the second issued this year by the National Weather Service office in Salt Lake City. The office had previously issued a warning for Tooele County, its first such warning since 2011.
Federal meteorologists later determined that an EF-1 tornado touched down about three miles northeast of Dugway the previous month. Utah typically averages about two tornadoes each year, making confirmed events relatively rare across the state.
The National Weather Service said additional scattered thunderstorms could continue through Friday evening, although storms were expected to weaken overnight. Some showers were possible Saturday morning and afternoon before cooler and drier conditions settled across much of Utah for the remainder of the weekend.
What Residents Should Know After the Storm
Residents should continue monitoring official weather alerts during severe thunderstorms, especially when warnings mention rotation, damaging winds, hail or flash flooding. Drivers should avoid flooded roads and remain cautious near downed branches, debris and standing water.
People who experienced damage can document it safely from a distance and report observations to local emergency officials or trained weather spotters. Accurate reports can help meteorologists determine the storm’s path and final intensity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the tornado touch down?
The tornado touched down near Bair Canyon, along a ridgeline west of Francis Peak near Fruit Heights in Davis County.
How strong was the Utah tornado?
Its official rating had not been finalized. Meteorologists said it could receive an EF-0 to EF-2 rating after damage surveys are completed.
When did the tornado occur?
Radar and video evidence indicated that the tornado touched down shortly after 1:50 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026.
What other severe weather was reported?
Communities reported wind gusts as high as 78 mph, large hail, heavy rain and ponding along portions of I-15.
