Colorado – Headlights reflect off damp pavement early this morning across the Grand Valley as winter quietly sets the stage. The calm feel won’t last long. A developing storm system brings a rain-to-snow transition that could affect weekend travel and plans heading into the final days of December.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, today stays relatively mild with highs near 60 and a chance of light showers later. Rain becomes more widespread by Saturday, with temperatures falling sharply by evening. As colder air arrives, precipitation changes to snow late Saturday night into Sunday, even reaching lower elevations.
Grand Junction, Fruita, and Palisade may start with rain, but snow becomes increasingly likely Sunday morning. Valley accumulations remain uncertain, but even a light coating could create slick conditions. Drivers should watch I-70 through the Grand Valley, especially on bridges and elevated ramps where freezing can happen quickly.
Mountain impacts look more significant. Snow continues across the Book Cliffs, Elk Mountains, and higher terrain above 8,000 feet. Travel over Douglas Pass, McClure Pass, and other mountain routes could become hazardous at times due to blowing snow and reduced visibility. Plan extra time if heading into higher elevations.
Sunday afternoon trends colder and quieter, with snow showers tapering. As skies clear Sunday night, temperatures plunge into the teens. Flash freezing becomes a concern as leftover moisture refreezes after sunset. Neighborhood roads and parking lots may turn icy with little warning.
Early next week brings sunshine but cold mornings, with highs holding in the 30s to low 40s. Attention then turns to New Year’s Eve on Wednesday. While conditions appear mostly dry for now, winter travel concerns linger as 2026 approaches.
Traveling this weekend or heading out midweek? Share what road conditions you’re seeing around western Colorado.
Five Day Outlook for Grand Junction, Colorado
Saturday: Rain showers, high near 49
Sunday: Snow showers early, then sunny, high near 36
Monday: Sunny, high near 35
Tuesday: Sunny, high near 38
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 43
