Grand Junction, CO — A cold front is set to push through Colorado this afternoon, bringing scattered mountain showers and rising fire risks across the state.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, temperatures will surge 10 to 15 degrees above average ahead of the front, driven by gusty southwesterly winds. These warmer-than-normal conditions are expected to persist through much of Sunday, particularly across the northern and central mountains.
In central western Colorado, including Mesa, Delta, and Montrose counties, the combination of breezy winds and low relative humidity is expected to significantly elevate wildfire risk. Red Flag Warnings are in effect from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, with residents urged to avoid open flames and secure outdoor equipment.
The cold front will bring isolated showers to the high country, but drier conditions will dominate lower elevations. While rainfall may offer slight relief in some northern areas, the majority of western Colorado remains vulnerable due to ongoing dry conditions.
Officials recommend limiting outdoor activities that could spark fires, and staying alert for local advisories. This weather setup is not uncommon for spring in Colorado, though the intensity of warmth and wind adds extra concern for fire management teams across the region.
