Grand Junction, Colo. – Triple-digit heat and the threat of sudden thunderstorms will test western Colorado residents through the weekend, with highs reaching as much as 102°F in Grand Junction by Thursday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, isolated storms could fire along the mountains this afternoon, capable of producing gusty winds up to 40 mph. Spotters are not expected to be activated at this time, but conditions will remain volatile, especially near higher terrain.
The Lower Yampa River Basin, Elk Mountains, San Juan Mountains, and Utah’s Uinta Basin are all included in the outlook. Hot, dry afternoons followed by pop-up storms may bring sudden downpours, dangerous lightning, and shifting outflow winds that can reduce visibility on highways including I-70 and U.S. 50.
Grand Junction, Rifle, and Montrose will face extreme heat through at least Friday, with Denver and eastern Utah also expected to see triple-digit highs. The NWS warns of record-level heat combining with spotty thunder chances through early next week. Residents should limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, hydrate often, and keep an eye on rapidly changing skies.
Hazardous weather conditions are expected to persist through Monday, with more advisories possible later in the week.
Five Day Forecast for Grand Junction, Colo.:
- Wednesday: Sunny, hot, high 101°F.
- Thursday: Hot, high near 102°F, mostly sunny.
- Friday: High near 100°F, 20% chance of storms in afternoon.
- Saturday: High 98°F, scattered showers and storms possible.
- Sunday: High 91°F, showers and thunderstorms likely.
