Colorado is waking up to wet pavement and low clouds, and drivers along I-70 near Grand Junction are already seeing slick spots as steady February rain moves through. Showers continue through the day, and snow stacks up quickly above 7,000 feet. If you’re heading toward the higher terrain, plan for winter driving conditions now.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, a Pacific system is pushing moderate rain across lower elevations while heavy snow falls in the central Rockies and Utah ranges. Valley highs reach the mid-50s today, but colder air filters in behind the front. Snow levels lower late, and a brief rain-snow mix cannot be ruled out as temperatures dip tonight.
In Grand Junction, periods of rain develop through the afternoon with temperatures near 56 degrees. Roads stay mainly wet, but any slush in shaded spots could refreeze after sunset. This is prime time for flash freezing in February. Melted snow and rainwater can turn icy fast as readings slide toward the upper 30s.
Mountain routes, including stretches of I-70 east toward Vail Pass and U.S. 50 over Monarch Pass, face accumulating snow and reduced visibility. Allow extra travel time and check CDOT updates before leaving.
Showers taper Thursday, with only spotty activity by evening. Friday brings another chance for light rain in the valley and fresh snow in the high country, just ahead of Valentine’s Weekend. Saturday turns sunnier with highs near 57, and Sunday climbs toward 60 under mostly cloudy skies.
Early next week looks milder, with temperatures trending above average into the 50s and possibly 60s as a broader warm-up builds across the central U.S. That spring tease may last several days.
Five Day Outlook for Grand Junction, Colorado:
Wednesday: Showers, high near 56.
Thursday: Slight chance of showers, high near 58.
Friday: Chance of showers, high near 57.
Saturday: Sunny, high near 57.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy, high near 60.
