GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – A sharp fall chill is sweeping into western Colorado today as a cold front moves through the Grand Valley, bringing scattered showers, gusty winds, and a freeze risk in higher valleys by early Friday. Residents across Mesa, Delta, and Garfield counties should prepare for colder air settling in fast.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, a line of light showers and isolated thunderstorms will pass through this morning before drier air takes over. The front will usher in cooler air, with lows dipping near or below freezing across the Colorado and Utah border valleys. Freeze Warnings are in effect late tonight for the Central Colorado River Basin and surrounding mountain valleys. Drivers along I-70 from De Beque to Glenwood Springs may encounter slick, wet roads and reduced visibility early.
By Friday, sunshine returns but temperatures remain crisp, with highs only reaching the lower 60s. The weekend gradually warms, bringing classic October sunshine and calm winds through Sunday. Saturday and Sunday highs climb into the mid-to-upper 60s—ideal for pumpkin patches, hiking along the Colorado National Monument, or leaf viewing in the Grand Mesa area.
Residents should protect sensitive plants, disconnect garden hoses, and ensure pets have warm shelter Thursday night. After the quick cold snap, a stretch of dry and pleasant fall weather extends into next week, giving western Colorado one more dose of golden sunshine before late October chills return.
Five-Day Forecast for Grand Junction, CO:
Thu: 61/37 – Showers early; cooler afternoon.
Fri: 62/38 – Sunny and calm; chilly start.
Sat: 64/40 – Bright and mild; great outdoor day.
Sun: 67/44 – Sunny; warmer trend begins.
Mon: 64/41 – Mostly sunny; pleasant fall air.
