Weather
Four Corners Severe Storm Alert Oct 21: Hail, Tornadoes Possible
GRAND JUNCTION, CO — Residents across the Four Corners region face a threat of strong to severe thunderstorms Wednesday, October 21, with damaging winds, large hail and even brief tornadoes possible d
By Cole Barrett · 2026-10-21T10:54:51.165Z
GRAND JUNCTION, CO — Residents across the Four Corners region face a threat of strong to severe thunderstorms Wednesday, October 21, with damaging winds, large hail and even brief tornadoes possible during the afternoon and early evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, Colorado, a weather system moving through the region is expected to produce widespread rainfall and potentially dangerous thunderstorms across portions of southwestern Colorado, southeastern Utah and the surrounding Four Corners area.
The greatest concern for Wednesday afternoon and early evening is the potential for isolated severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds, large hail and brief tornadoes.
Forecasters indicate the severe weather threat could continue into Thursday, making this a multiday concern for communities across the region.
Areas including Durango, Cortez, Pagosa Springs and nearby Four Corners communities should closely monitor changing conditions as storms develop.
While not every location will experience severe weather, isolated storms could become dangerous quickly, especially for motorists traveling across exposed highways and rural roads.
Large hail could damage vehicles and property, while strong wind gusts may create hazardous driving conditions. Anyone outdoors should be prepared to seek sturdy indoor shelter if thunderstorms approach.
The severe storm threat comes alongside a broader flooding concern.
Flood watches are in effect for portions of southeastern Utah and southwestern Colorado, with moderate to heavy rainfall potentially triggering flash flooding through Friday morning.
National Weather Service rainfall projections through Friday evening show approximately 2.6 inches near Durango, 2.5 inches near Pagosa Springs and 2.2 inches near Blanding, Utah.
Heavy rainfall could cause rapid rises in creeks, streams and normally dry washes. Rockslides and debris flows are also possible in steep terrain and recent wildfire burn scars.
Residents should remain weather aware Wednesday afternoon and evening, keep emergency alerts enabled and avoid flooded roadways.