Grand Junction, Colo. – Western Colorado faces another day of record-breaking heat Wednesday, with highs surging 10 to 15 degrees above normal and many locations pushing into the triple digits. The National Weather Service warns that the most dangerous conditions will occur between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when prolonged exposure could quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, the San Juan Mountains may see isolated to scattered thunderstorms Wednesday afternoon, producing lightning, gusty winds, and brief showers. For the rest of the Western Slope, skies will stay mostly clear, intensifying the heat. Afternoon highs are expected to reach 103°F in Grand Junction, 99°F in Montrose, and the upper 90s across Delta and Rifle.
Officials urge residents to avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak hours, stay hydrated, and wear light-colored clothing. Pets should be kept indoors or provided with shade and plenty of water. Motorists are reminded to never leave children or animals inside parked vehicles, where interior temperatures can become deadly within minutes.
Forecasters expect the extreme heat to persist through Friday before a surge of monsoonal moisture this weekend brings widespread thunderstorms and cooler air. Until then, advisories remain in effect, and more alerts are possible if conditions worsen.
