Grand Junction and Western Colorado are set for a stretch of unseasonably warm and sunny weather over the next several days, with temperatures expected to climb close to record highs for this time of year. This pattern is driven by an area of high pressure that is settling over the region, ensuring abundant sunshine and dry conditions. The extended warmth means residents should prepare for elevated temperatures, especially those planning to attend outdoor events.
On Sunday, the day will be abundantly sunny across the valley. Morning lows in Grand Junction are projected to be around 56 degrees. Other nearby towns will see cooler starts, with Montrose at about 49 degrees, Delta at 50 degrees, and Cortez at 47 degrees. Further afield, Moab is expected to have a morning low of approximately 59 degrees. As the day progresses, temperatures across the region will increase, reaching the low to mid-70s around noon. Afternoon highs are forecasted to hit about 84 degrees in Grand Junction. Nearby, Montrose and Cortez are expected to reach around 79 degrees, while Delta could see highs of 83 degrees. Moab, located just across the state line, is predicted to reach approximately 89 degrees.
The Grand Junction Air Show, which continues Sunday, will experience these warm conditions. The event is scheduled to begin at 10:30 AM, with the Blue Angels performing their aerial demonstration around 2:30 PM. Attendees can expect abundant sunshine and highs in the mid-80s. Forecasters advise those at the show and other outdoor activities to stay hydrated, wear sunglasses, and apply sunscreen to protect eyes and skin from the strong sun and heat.
The unseasonably warm weather pattern, with temperatures about 10-15 degrees above normal for this period, is anticipated to persist throughout Western Colorado for most of the upcoming week. This is attributed to the lingering high-pressure system. Forecasters indicate that this system may begin to move out of the area later in the week, potentially influenced by an approaching storm system. Until that potential shift, conditions will remain warm and dry. Temperatures are expected to near record territory specifically by Tuesday and Wednesday. The forecasted high for Grand Junction on both Tuesday and Wednesday is 83 degrees. The standing record highs for these days are 85 degrees and 84 degrees, respectively.
Looking further ahead, warm conditions appear likely to continue. The Climate Prediction Center indicates about a 60% chance of above-normal temperatures for Western Colorado during the period of October 9-13. While overall warmth is expected in this long-range forecast, the Climate Prediction Center also notes that there are equal chances for above or below normal precipitation during that same timeframe, meaning some wet weather could also be possible alongside the warmth.
