Grand Junction, Colorado – Temperatures across western Colorado are climbing sharply through Saturday, with highs nearing 100°F in Moab and Palisade and widespread 90s elsewhere, increasing the risk of wildfires and heat-related illnesses.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, the warming trend will intensify between Thursday evening and Saturday, June 14, with hot, dry air and gusty afternoon winds pushing fire danger to critical levels—especially in lower elevation zones.
Moab will see highs of 99°F on Thursday and 100°F on Saturday, while Palisade is forecast to reach 98°F Friday and Saturday. Meeker, Ridgeway, and even typically cooler towns like Telluride will top out in the upper 80s and 90s. Residents should avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat, check vehicles for unattended kids or pets, and hydrate frequently.
Localized storms may pop up over the mountains Thursday afternoon, but overall the region will stay hot and dry. Windy afternoons combined with the heat may ignite fast-spreading fires.
This early-summer heat wave is expected to peak Saturday. Additional fire weather advisories may be issued heading into the weekend.
🗓 Three-Day Outlook (June 12–14)
- Thursday: Sunny, highs 86–99°F, isolated PM storms over mountains
- Friday: Hot and dry, highs 90–100°F, gusty winds
- Saturday: Peak heat, highs 93–100°F, critical fire risk
