Grand Junction, Colo. – Record-breaking heat is gripping western Colorado and eastern Utah Thursday, with highs soaring into the triple digits and little relief expected. Grand Junction is forecast to top out at 102 degrees, surpassing its previous record of 99 for this date, while Moab will climb to a blistering 105.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, hot and dry conditions will dominate the afternoon before isolated showers and thunderstorms develop along higher terrain. However, the storms are expected to bring mainly gusty outflow winds rather than beneficial rainfall, raising fire danger across the region.
Aspen, Rifle, and Montrose are all expected to tie or exceed previous records, while Durango, Craig, and Vernal will see temperatures close to their late-August extremes. Roads and outdoor recreation areas may see increased heat stress, especially in canyon country and along I-70 corridors. Officials urge residents to limit strenuous activity during peak afternoon hours, drink plenty of water, and never leave children or pets in vehicles.
The intense heat and dry storms are expected to persist into the evening before easing overnight. Additional advisories may be issued if critical fire weather conditions continue into the weekend.
