Grand Junction, CO – A round of fall storms is set to disrupt western Colorado this weekend, bringing gusty winds, rain, and even the chance for high-elevation snow. The National Weather Service in Grand Junction warns that Friday night into Saturday could feature widespread showers and thunderstorms, with mountain passes turning slick and breezy conditions lowering visibility on roadways.
According to the National Weather Service Grand Junction office, winds will strengthen Friday, with southwest gusts up to 35 mph ahead of a cold front. That system will drive widespread rainfall across Mesa, Garfield, Delta, and Montrose Counties, and scattered thunderstorms could develop Friday evening into Saturday morning. Drivers on I-70 and U.S. 50 should expect reduced travel speeds in heavy rain and isolated power interruptions from stronger storm cells.
Cooler air will spill in behind the front, with temperatures dropping nearly 10 degrees by Saturday. High-elevation areas including the Elk and San Juan Mountains may see the first accumulating snow of the season, particularly above 10,000 feet. Conditions improve by Sunday with more sunshine and calmer winds, though temperatures remain several degrees below seasonal norms.
Residents are advised to secure outdoor items ahead of Friday’s winds, charge devices in case of isolated outages, and allow extra travel time Saturday morning. Those headed into the mountains should prepare for winter-like conditions at higher passes, while lower valleys remain mostly wet and breezy. More seasonable weather returns early next week.
Five-Day Forecast for Grand Junction, CO:
Thu: 89/55 – Clear, mild; breezy south winds overnight.
Fri: 87/58 – Sunny early; showers, storms likely late; gusts near 35 mph.
Sat: 73/45 – Showers and thunderstorms, breezy; cooler; snow possible at high peaks.
Sun: 70/47 – Partly cloudy, seasonably cool; calmer winds.
Mon: 76/48 – Sunny, milder afternoon; dry conditions return.
