GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — Residents across western Colorado are experiencing an unusually warm start to the workweek, with Monday temperatures running 10 to 15 degrees above normal, according to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction.
Forecasters say unseasonably warm and dry conditions will persist through at least the first half of the week, a notable departure from typical mid-December weather. Monday is expected to feature partly sunny skies with high clouds, allowing mild daytime temperatures to continue across the lower elevations of the Grand Valley.
The warmer-than-average pattern is being driven by a stable air mass over the region, limiting storm activity and keeping precipitation chances low through midweek. While daytime warmth will be noticeable, overnight temperatures are still expected to cool efficiently, maintaining a typical wintertime feel after sunset.
Looking ahead, meteorologists note that while temperatures will remain above seasonal norms, changes may arrive later in the week, particularly for northern areas and higher terrain. Disturbances passing north of the region could bring periods of light precipitation to the northern mountains, with rain or snow possible at higher elevations by mid to late week. Lower elevations, including Grand Junction, are expected to remain mostly dry.
The ongoing dry stretch has implications beyond daily comfort. Fire weather conditions may remain elevated in some areas due to low humidity and limited moisture, even as winter officially approaches. Outdoor burning is discouraged, and residents are urged to remain cautious with any activities that could spark fires.
For now, forecasters say Monday’s warmth offers a calm and pleasant start to the week, but residents should stay informed as mountain weather conditions may become more active later in the week.
Weather updates and forecasts are available through the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies.
