Colorado — Rain-darkened pavement, rising creek levels, and low clouds pressing against the mesas set the tone this morning across western Colorado. What starts mild and wet now may turn slushy later, just as post-Christmas travel ramps up.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, temperatures surge into the low 60s today with increasing clouds and light winds. Conditions stay quiet through the day, but moisture builds fast by evening as a Pacific system pushes inland.
Rain becomes likely Wednesday night and continues through Christmas Day, with precipitation chances near 80 percent. Highs near 60 keep most valley locations wet, but steady rainfall may pool on roads like I-70, U.S. 50, and Highway 141. Drivers should expect spray, reduced visibility, and slick stretches through the holiday.
By Thursday night, colder air begins filtering in. Rain continues, but temperatures fall into the low 40s. That shift matters for higher elevations surrounding Grand Junction, including the Book Cliffs and Uncompahgre Plateau, where snow becomes more likely.
Friday brings a 50 percent chance of showers with highs near 55. Conditions deteriorate further Friday night as temperatures drop into the mid-30s. Rain may mix with snow toward daybreak, raising concerns for slushy roads and early flash freezing.
Meteorologists are also watching the broader Western pattern. Heavy rain impacts California while significant mountain snow builds across the Sierra and Rockies. That larger system supports unsettled weather lingering into the weekend across western Colorado.
Saturday stays cooler with highs near the upper 40s and lingering rain or snow chances. Any moisture left on pavement may refreeze after sunset, especially on bridges and shaded canyon roads.
Plan extra travel time Friday and Saturday. Keep headlights on in rain, and watch for changing road conditions after dark.
Five-Day Outlook for Grand Junction, CO
- Today: Partly sunny, high near 62
- Wednesday: Increasing clouds, high near 61
- Christmas Day: Rain likely, high near 60
- Friday: Showers possible, high near 55
- Saturday: Rain/snow chance, high near 47
