Weather
Western Colorado Weather Alert: 3 Inches, Flood Risk Oct. 11-12
Grand Junction, CO – Heavy rain could turn normally dry washes into dangerous waterways across western Colorado Sunday, October 11, and Monday, October 12. Forecasters warn that thunderstorms and runo
By Rachel Monroe · 2026-10-11T11:37:52.459Z
Grand Junction, CO – Heavy rain could turn normally dry washes into dangerous waterways across western Colorado Sunday, October 11, and Monday, October 12. Forecasters warn that thunderstorms and runoff could trigger flash flooding, especially near burn scars and narrow canyons.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, an official Hydrologic Outlook highlights increasing flood concerns across western Colorado and eastern Utah. Higher terrain could receive 1 to 3 inches of total precipitation, with the greatest amounts favored in the Unitas, Tavaputs and southwest San Juan mountains.
Flash Flooding Threatens Vulnerable Terrain
Remnants of Tropical Storm Rachel are feeding moisture into a developing low pressure system.
The resulting rainfall could produce rapid rises in rivers, streams, dry washes and slot canyons Sunday through Monday.
Embedded thunderstorms Sunday afternoon could increase flooding concerns, although forecasters acknowledge uncertainty surrounding exact rainfall locations and rates.
Residents near recent wildfire burn scars should remain especially alert.
Rain and Gusty Winds Continue
Grand Junction faces a 60% chance of rain Sunday, with thunderstorms possible and temperatures reaching 76 degrees.
South winds could gust to 35 mph.
Columbus Day, Monday, October 12, brings a 40% precipitation chance and highs near 73 degrees. Gusts could again reach 35 mph.
Wet Conditions Extend Into Tuesday
Tuesday, October 13, brings another 70% chance of showers, possibly accompanied by thunderstorms. Highs fall to 66 degrees.
Rain chances remain at 70% Tuesday night and continue Wednesday, when temperatures reach only 59 degrees.
Drier, warmer weather returns Thursday and Friday, with highs near 84 and 86 degrees.
Residents should avoid flooded roads and monitor warnings before entering canyons or traveling near waterways.
The Hydrologic Outlook identifies potential flooding but does not itself constitute a Flash Flood Warning.