Grand Junction, Colo. – Travelers in western Colorado should prepare for a hot Labor Day with storm chances building into the San Juan Mountains Monday afternoon. Hikers, campers, and motorists crossing US-50 and I-70 could encounter gusty winds and lightning near higher passes.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, isolated thunderstorms will spark over the San Juans Monday afternoon. While widespread flooding is not expected, brief downpours and small hail could affect outdoor events and mountain roads. Dry, breezy weather continues into midweek, raising fire concerns across southwest Colorado.
Grand Junction itself will see a sunny Labor Day with highs near 91 degrees. Montrose and Durango should also climb into the low 90s. Mountain communities like Telluride and Ouray stay cooler, topping out in the mid-70s, but storm risks remain through the afternoon.
The National Weather Service urges residents and visitors to limit time outdoors during peak afternoon heat. Carry extra water, watch for rapidly changing skies in mountain areas, and avoid exposed ridges when storms develop. Motorists should use caution on US-50 and I-70, where wet pavement and low visibility could slow holiday traffic.
Warmer and drier air continues through much of the week, but isolated showers may return by Thursday. More unsettled weather could arrive next weekend as additional monsoonal moisture pushes into the Four Corners.
Five-Day Forecast for Grand Junction, Colorado:
- Monday (Labor Day): Sunny, high 91. Storm risk in San Juans.
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 92.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high 92.
- Thursday: Mostly clear, high 91.
- Friday: Partly cloudy, high near 88.
