Grand Junction, CO – Residents across western Colorado are waking up to a bitter chill this morning as a Freeze Warning remains in effect for the Central and Upper Yampa River Basins and Animas River Basin, according to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction.
The warning, which continues until 9 a.m. MDT Saturday, includes communities such as Craig, Hayden, Meeker, Steamboat Springs, Durango, Bayfield, and Ignacio. Temperatures have dropped to as low as 24°F, marking one of the coldest mornings so far this fall.
Forecasters warn that the freeze could kill crops, damage sensitive vegetation, and harm unprotected outdoor plumbing. Residents are advised to cover plants, wrap exposed pipes, and allow indoor faucets to drip slowly to prevent freezing.
Temperatures are expected to rise later this morning, bringing some relief by midday. However, another round of cold conditions could return overnight in higher valleys and sheltered areas.
