Grand Junction, CO – Unseasonably warm and dry conditions are gripping western Colorado, bringing both record-challenging temperatures and increasing fire weather concerns.
The National Weather Service in Grand Junction says high pressure is driving temperatures well above normal, with readings about five degrees warmer than Thursday and additional records likely to be broken across the region.
The warm pattern is being paired with:
- Very dry air
- Gusty winds developing this afternoon
- Stronger winds expected Saturday
This combination is creating critical fire weather conditions, especially in northwest Colorado where Red Flag Warnings have been issued for Saturday afternoon.
Forecasters stress that warm, dry, and windy conditions significantly increase the risk of rapid wildfire spread. Outdoor burning and activities that could spark fires should be avoided.
The stretch of sunny, springlike weather will continue through the weekend, but officials urge residents to remain cautious, particularly in forested and grassy areas.
