Grand Junction, Colorado – Severe heat and high-country lightning storms are on tap for Thursday, July 24, as temperatures climb to 97°F across Grand Junction and much of western Colorado. Gusty winds and scattered thunderstorms over the nearby San Juans and Central Divide could increase wildfire risk through Thursday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, dry air moving in from the west will raise fire danger across Mesa, Delta, and Montrose counties. Thunderstorms will favor the higher terrain Thursday afternoon, bringing dry lightning and erratic wind gusts — particularly along U.S. Highway 550 and Colorado 141. Wetting rain is possible but isolated. Residents and travelers should avoid open flames and monitor for smoke and wind changes near wildfire-prone areas.
From Thursday through the weekend, expect rising temperatures with mostly sunny skies and highs hovering between 96°F and 99°F. Conditions will remain critically dry in valleys and along major roadways like I-70 and U.S. 50. Fire weather threats will become more widespread by Saturday, especially in lower elevations.
🔥 Preparedness Tip: Avoid outdoor burning. Check local restrictions, and report smoke sightings immediately. Lightning strikes may spark fast-moving fires under these dry, windy conditions.
🔎 Five-Day Forecast for Grand Junction (July 24–29)
- Thursday, July 24: Mostly sunny, high 96°F. Storms possible in mountains. Winds NW 5–10 mph.
- Friday: Sunny and dry, high 97°F. Elevated fire danger.
- Saturday: Hot, high near 98°F. Fire risk increases.
- Sunday: Sunny and hot, high 99°F. Red Flag conditions likely in low valleys.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high 100°F. Winds light, very dry.
🔥 Weather Alert: Conditions remain dangerously dry through early next week. Additional alerts may be issued.
