Grand Junction, CO – Triple-digit heat, gusty winds, and low humidity will combine Thursday to bring dangerous fire weather to western Colorado, with the most critical period expected from late morning through early evening. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Mesa County and surrounding areas, including the Grand Valley, Uncompahgre Plateau, and the lower Gunnison River Valley.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, east winds early Thursday will turn west-southwest by afternoon, gusting up to 25 mph as temperatures approach 99°F. Combined with single-digit humidity, these conditions could cause rapid fire growth if any new blazes ignite. Outdoor burning is prohibited, and residents are urged to secure trailer chains, avoid parking on dry grass, and delay any welding or grinding work.
Smoke from regional wildfires will also linger, reducing air quality for sensitive groups, especially during the morning hours. Friday will bring a shift toward slightly cooler highs in the low 90s, but scattered thunderstorms may produce gusty outflow winds and lightning, creating additional fire starts.
Fire danger may ease slightly this weekend, but warm, dry afternoons will persist into early next week.
Five Day Grand Junction, CO Forecast:
- Thursday: Hot, smoky morning; critical fire weather 11 a.m.–9 p.m. High 99°F, low 68°F
- Friday: Slight chance of storms, gusty winds, continued fire danger. High 93°F, low 65°F
- Saturday: Isolated afternoon showers and storms. High 92°F, low 66°F
- Sunday: Sunny and warm. High 94°F, low 67°F
- Monday: Sunny and hot. High 96°F, low 67°F
