Colorado – A cold, muted sky stretches over Grand Junction this morning as slushy patches cling to curbs and frosty mist hangs over open fields. Drivers along U.S. 50 and I-70 can expect damp pavement that may freeze in shaded stretches—classic early-December hazards as winter accelerates its seasonal takeover. Use caution while merging or slowing at intersections; even thin ice can trigger unexpected slides.
According to the National Weather Service, scattered rain and snow showers arrive later today, mainly after mid-afternoon. Highs reach the low 40s, but cold surface temperatures mean any precipitation could briefly stick or refreeze shortly after sunset. Winds stay light, yet the steady chill will make wet roadways feel slick longer than usual. Keep extra time in your travel window.
A stronger push of moisture develops Saturday, with snow in the morning gradually mixing with rain and then improving toward the afternoon. Highs approach 42°F. Gusts up to 20 mph could reduce visibility during bursts of snow, especially along the Book Cliffs and Grand Mesa approaches. Meteorologists warn of short-lived but impactful squalls that may produce quick accumulations in nearby mountains.
Sunday turns noticeably calmer, offering sunny skies and a high near 44°F. Still, refreezing Saturday slush could leave icy patches on rural routes through Orchard Mesa, Fruita, and Clifton. After all, freeze–thaw cycles ramp up sharply in early December.
Long-range guidance also highlights an increasingly active pattern across the northern U.S. between Dec. 11–17. Clipper-driven snow and lake-effect bands may impact major travel hubs from Minnesota to Pennsylvania—something holiday travelers should keep on their radar.
Five-Day Outlook for Grand Junction
Today: Partly sunny, 41°F; showers late.
Saturday: A.M. rain/snow; improving. 42°F.
Sunday: Sunny, 44°F.
Monday: Sunny, 46°F.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, 47°F.
