Colorado’s western slope wakes to damp air and dark clouds, with wet pavement already hinting at a longer stretch of winter weather ahead. What starts as rain today will gradually evolve into a more classic late-December pattern.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, rain and snow showers spread northward through the day, especially across higher terrain. Valley locations like Grand Junction remain mostly rain through Christmas, while nearby mountains see accumulating snow. Some higher elevations in eastern Utah and the central Rockies could pick up 6 to 10 inches of snow, with gusty winds reducing visibility.
Christmas Day stays active. Showers remain likely, and brief thunderstorms are possible during the afternoon. Highs reach near 61 degrees, but cloud cover and steady moisture keep conditions feeling cooler. Roads in the valley may stay wet much of the day, while mountain passes turn slushy.
By Thursday night and Friday, precipitation becomes more scattered. A lull may develop Friday into early Saturday, offering a short travel window. Still, clouds linger and temperatures trend downward. Highs fall into the upper 50s Friday, then dip further by Saturday.
The bigger shift arrives with post-Christmas travel on Saturday. Showers return, and colder air moves in. Rain is expected to transition toward rain and snow, especially by evening. Daytime highs only reach the upper 40s, and nighttime lows drop near 26 degrees.
That setup raises the risk of flash freezing. Any moisture left on roads could freeze quickly after sunset. Bridges, ramps, and shaded areas may turn slick with little warning, especially for late travelers.
Meteorologists note this system connects to a broader winter pattern impacting much of the West, including heavy mountain snow and difficult pass conditions.
Travel tips:
Check pass conditions. Plan extra time Saturday night. Watch for icy patches after dark.
📅 Five-Day Outlook — Grand Junction, CO
- Christmas Day: Showers, high 61
- Thursday Night: Chance of showers, low 39
- Friday: Mostly cloudy, high 57
- Saturday: Showers likely, high 48
- Saturday Night: Rain/snow chance, low 26
