GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – A calm, crisp dawn settles over the Grand Valley today, with the mesas glowing orange against a clear desert sky. But a noticeable change is building — western Colorado’s first real round of fall rain and thunder could arrive by Thursday afternoon, bringing cooler air and damp roads across the I-70 corridor.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, mild sunshine dominates Tuesday and Wednesday with highs near 70°F and light southeast winds. Clouds begin to increase late Wednesday as a Pacific disturbance moves across Utah, spreading instability and scattered showers into the Western Slope by early Thursday. Some storms may produce brief downpours, lightning, and gusts up to 25 mph, especially over Mesa and Garfield counties.
Drivers and outdoor crews should prepare for quick-hitting showers Thursday morning through early evening. While rainfall totals should remain under a quarter inch, slick roads and reduced visibility could briefly affect commutes between Fruita, Grand Junction, and Rifle. Hikers and field workers are advised to secure equipment and monitor skies for developing thunder after midday.
By Friday, the system clears, leaving behind cooler, drier air with highs in the mid-60s and lows dipping into the lower 40s. The weekend looks inviting — mostly sunny skies, light breezes, and pleasant afternoons for harvest festivals or early Halloween decorating. Still, with nighttime readings falling steadily toward 40°F, the region may be only one cold front away from its first fall freeze as October winds down.
Five-Day Forecast for Grand Junction, CO:
Tue: 68/40 – Sunny; calm, pleasant afternoon.
Wed: 70/46 – Mostly sunny; clouds increase late.
Thu: 64/42 – Showers, isolated thunder; cooler breeze.
Fri: 64/42 – Sunny; crisp morning, calm wind.
Sat: 67/43 – Mostly sunny; mild fall weekend.
