Image Source: ABC4 Utah
Tornado warning alerts were issued for parts of Davis County on Friday afternoon after a powerful storm developed over northern Utah. The National Weather Service office in Salt Lake City reported a possible tornado on radar and said a funnel cloud was observed over northern Davis County.
The warning included Layton, Kaysville, Farmington, Mountain Green, Morgan and surrounding communities. According to the National Weather Service, the alert remained in effect until 2:15 p.m. Friday, September 18, 2026, as storms moved across the Wasatch Front.
Urgent Tornado Warning Covers Northern Davis County
Residents in the warned area were urged to take shelter immediately. Safety officials recommended moving to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. People were also advised to stay away from windows and avoid open areas until the storm threat passed.
The alert followed signs of rapidly intensifying weather in the region. The National Weather Service said radar indicated a possible tornado, while witnesses and weather observers reported a funnel cloud over northern Davis County. A funnel cloud does not always reach the ground, but it can signal a dangerous tornado threat when connected to a rotating thunderstorm.
People near Layton, Kaysville, Farmington, Mountain Green and Morgan were encouraged to monitor official weather information and be prepared to move quickly if additional warnings were issued. Conditions can change in minutes during a severe thunderstorm, particularly when strong rotation is detected.
Powerful Storm Brings Hail and Damaging Winds
In addition to the tornado threat, the storm carried the possibility of ping-pong ball-sized hail. Hail of that size can damage vehicles, windows, roofs, siding and outdoor equipment. Drivers caught outside during severe weather were advised to pull over safely and avoid stopping beneath trees or near flooded roadways.
A separate severe thunderstorm warning was also issued for parts of Weber and Davis counties as the system continued moving through the area. Forecasters warned that wind gusts could exceed 60 mph, creating the potential for downed branches, power disruptions and difficult travel.
Heavy rain added another concern. The storm was capable of producing intense rainfall and possible flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas, drainage channels and locations that had already received significant precipitation. Even shallow water can conceal damaged pavement or sweep vehicles from the road.
What Residents Should Do During a Tornado Warning
A tornado warning means a tornado has been detected by radar or reported by trained observers. It is more urgent than a tornado watch, which means conditions are favorable for tornado development but does not confirm that one is occurring.
- Move immediately to a basement, storm shelter or small interior room.
- Stay on the lowest floor possible and place as many walls as possible between you and the storm.
- Keep away from windows, glass doors and exterior walls.
- Protect your head and neck with your arms, blankets, pillows or a mattress.
- Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle if shelter is nearby.
- After the storm, watch for downed power lines, broken glass, flooding and structural damage.
Residents should rely on official alerts rather than waiting to see a funnel cloud. Tornadoes can be hidden by heavy rain, darkness or hail, and the most dangerous winds may arrive before a visible funnel reaches an area.
Storm Threat Extends Across the Wasatch Front
The Davis County storm was part of a broader period of unsettled weather affecting northern Utah. Lightning, heavy rain and strong winds were reported or expected across portions of the Wasatch Front as thunderstorms continued to develop Friday afternoon.
The National Weather Service urged residents to remain alert while warnings were active and to review emergency plans before the next storm arrived. Families, schools, businesses and outdoor event organizers were encouraged to keep multiple ways to receive weather alerts, including a mobile phone, local broadcasts and weather radio.
At the time of the report, officials had not confirmed whether a tornado touched down or whether major damage occurred. The primary concerns remained the possible tornado, large hail, damaging wind gusts, heavy rain and flash flooding across parts of Davis and Weber counties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas were included in the tornado warning?
The warning covered Layton, Kaysville, Farmington, Mountain Green, Morgan and surrounding areas in and near northern Davis County.
How long was the warning in effect?
The National Weather Service said the warning remained active until 2:15 p.m. Friday, September 18, 2026.
What type of hail was possible?
The storm could produce hail described as ping-pong ball-sized, which may cause damage to vehicles, windows, roofs and other property.
Where should people shelter during a tornado warning?
The safest option is a basement or storm shelter. If neither is available, move to an interior room on the lowest floor and stay away from windows.
