Utah
Things to know...
Details that are different from state to state and may make your posting just a little bit easier!
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Weather & Natural Disasters
Utah’s weather is defined by its dry, desert climate, with hot summers often reaching the 90s and 100s, especially in the southern regions, while winters can be cold, with temperatures ranging from the 20s to 40s and significant snowfall in the mountains. The state is generally arid but can experience occasional flash floods during summer thunderstorms, especially in canyon areas.
Earthquakes
Utah is part of the intermountain seismic belt, and while major earthquakes are rare, Ogden is located near fault lines that could be susceptible to earthquakes. Be prepared by securing heavy furniture and appliances, creating an emergency plan, and storing emergency supplies in case of a quake.
Flooding
Springtime flooding is another concern for Ogden, particularly from snowmelt and heavy spring rains. The Ogden River and surrounding areas can experience flash flooding in low-lying regions, especially after heavy rain or rapid snowmelt. Flash floods can occur quickly, so it's crucial to be aware of local weather alerts and never attempt to drive through floodwaters.
Prepare
Receiving weather warnings, alerts and updates through multiple means will ensure that you are prepared and can act quickly. NOAA weather radio, local weather broadcasts, outdoor sirens, wireless emergency alerts (if you switch to an American area code), weather apps, and social media are all great tools to receive national and statewide disaster and emergency alerts.
For more in-depth information, check out ready.gov, a national campaign aimed at educating and empowering individuals to prepare for, respond to, and mitigate emergencies and disasters.
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Neighbourhoods
Ogden
Located south of Ogden in northern Utah, Hill Air Force Base (HAFB) is a major U.S. Air Force installation that serves as a hub for logistics, aircraft maintenance, and training. CAF members may search for housing in the vibrant city of Ogden which offers modern amenities, a thriving arts and cultural scene, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Neighborhood Navigator: A tool from Military One Source that helps you explore and learn more about a community, including information on schools, amenities, demographics, and more.
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Hill Air Force Base
For more detailed information about each base, including contact information and specific services offered, you can visit Military One Source or the Hill AFB - 75th FSS website.
Spouses and dependents with valid Department of Defense (DoD) identification cards should have access to Hill AFB, which offers a commissary, exchange, and various Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities. Amenities include fitness centers, a library, dining options, lodging at the Mountain View Inn, and the Hill Aerospace Museum.
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Getting Around
Getting around Ogden and the Hill Air Force Base is primarily car-dependent, as the base is located about 10 miles south of the city. Traffic around Ogden and Hill AFB can be moderate, especially during peak hours and shift changes. Public transportation options include the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) bus services, which connect Ogden to nearby areas, including Hill AFB.
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On-Base Medical Treatment Facility
Hill Air Force Base in Utah provides comprehensive medical services through the 75th Medical Group, offering health care to CAF Families who have been enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) and have TRICARE eligibility.
Unsure about your healthcare coverage? Visit our Healthcare in the U.S. webpage, where you'll find tailored pathways for personalized coverage details.
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Critters & Wildlife
Utah is home to wildlife such as venomous snakes like the Western Diamondback rattlesnake and the Mojave rattlesnake, as well as scorpions and occasional encounters with mountain lions in more rural areas. The state also has ticks, though they are less common compared to other regions. Compared to Canada, Utah’s desert climate supports a greater number of reptiles and insects, making routine pest control recommended to manage scorpions, termites, and other pests that thrive in the dry heat.
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Children's Education
There are several public schools within a 25-mile radius of Ogden.
It is highly recommended that you connect with your installation’s School Liaison, who can provide valuable information on local school districts, act as a bridge between the military community and school administrators, and offer expert guidance on educational matters.
Hill Air Force Base School Liaison Program
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Child Care
Child Development Centers
Child Development Centers (CDCs) generally offer childcare for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Care is available Monday through Friday, with some locations offering options such as extended hours, weekend care, and respite care. Child Development Centers vary in size, and larger installations may operate multiple facilities. Programs are certified by the Department of Defense and accredited by a national accrediting body, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
For a full list of military-operated childcare programs, including Child Development Centers, childcare programs, before- and after-school care, as well as summer and holiday camps, visit MilitaryChildCare.com. There, you can enter your location or military installation to find a comprehensive list of childcare programs, as well as submit requests for care through Child Development Centers, school-age care programs, and DOD-certified Family Child Care providers.
Additional Child and Developement Resources
Vsit our Family Care webpage, where you’ll find parenting and advocacy programs, development resources, toolkits, and more.
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Automobile Registration, Plates & Licenses
The Utah Department of Public Safety provides information on transferring out-of-state titles and licenses.
