Grand Junction, CO – An abrupt shift to hot and dry conditions will elevate fire weather concerns across western Colorado and eastern Utah starting Wednesday. Temperatures are set to climb into the high 90s, creating dangerous fire-start conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, Wednesday will be hot with a high near 97°F. West-northwest winds are expected to pick up in the afternoon. The combination of heat, low humidity, and wind will lead to increasing chances for critical fire weather conditions beginning Wednesday and continuing through Thursday. These conditions are favorable for rapid fire growth and spread.
Residents in the Grand Valley, including areas from Palisade to Fruita, should exercise extreme caution. Outdoor activities that could create a spark, such as using machinery or campfires, should be avoided. The NWS advises that any fires that develop will likely spread quickly. This pattern of hot and dry weather is expected to dominate the region through the end of the week.
The elevated fire risk extends across a broad area, including the Uncompahgre Plateau, the San Juan Mountains, and portions of east-central Utah. No spotter activation is expected at this time, but residents should remain vigilant and monitor for any future alerts or warnings.
Here is a look at the extended forecast for the Grand Junction area:
- THURSDAY: [SUNNY] with a high near 96°F.
- FRIDAY: [HOT] with a high near 98°F.
- SATURDAY: [SUNNY] with a high near 100°F.
- SUNDAY: [SUNNY] with a high near 101°F.
