Grand Junction, Colo. – Drivers along I-70 and US-50 should prepare for rapid snowmelt and changing road conditions as temperatures climb 10 to 15 degrees above normal through Monday afternoon, accelerating runoff in lower valleys before a wetter pattern arrives midweek.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, high cloudiness will drift across western Colorado Sunday, but dry and warmer conditions will dominate through Monday. Afternoon highs in the Grand Valley are expected to reach the 40s and 50s, running well above mid-February averages. Mountain communities will also see milder conditions before the next system approaches.
By Tuesday, a shift begins as snow moves into the central and northern mountains, including stretches of I-70 near Vail Pass and the Eisenhower Tunnel. Valley locations such as Grand Junction and Delta may see a mix of rain and snow late Tuesday into Wednesday, especially during the overnight and early morning hours.
Travelers planning trips through Glenwood Canyon or along US-550 toward Ouray should monitor conditions closely as mountain snow could create slick passes while valley roads remain mainly wet. CDOT crews may respond to changing conditions as precipitation expands midweek.
Residents should clear storm drains where possible to reduce localized flooding from melting snow and be prepared for colder, wetter weather lasting through the end of the week. Additional advisories are possible as the midweek system develops and forecast details become clearer.
