Grand Junction residents should prepare for dangerous flooding Saturday as heavy rainfall targets western Colorado and brings a serious risk to burn scar areas. Low-lying roads, including stretches of Interstate 70 through Mesa County, may flood quickly as storms drop torrential rainfall through this evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, a Flood Watch remains in effect until midnight for portions of southwest and west-central Colorado, including Garfield, Eagle, Mesa, and Delta counties. Recent burn scars such as Deer Creek, Elk, and Turner Gulch are at highest risk for flash flooding. Forecasters warn that runoff could overwhelm creeks and streams, making travel hazardous.
Emergency officials urge drivers to avoid flooded roads and prepare alternate routes if travel cannot be delayed. Residents living near flood-prone areas should remain alert and ready to move to higher ground if conditions worsen. Keep cell phones charged and avoid unnecessary evening travel.
Storms will weaken overnight, allowing drier air to return by Sunday. Sunshine will dominate the extended forecast, with highs climbing into the 80s through midweek. Fire danger could increase next week as the region dries out.
The flood threat may taper off tonight, but officials stress that additional alerts could be issued if rainfall lingers. Stay tuned to local updates for the latest advisories.
Five-Day Forecast for Grand Junction, CO
- Sunday: Sunny, high near 79. Low around 54.
- Monday: Sunny, high near 85. Low around 55.
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 84. Low around 54.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 86. Low around 54.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 84. Low around 58.