Residents of Grand Junction and nearby areas in western Colorado need to stay alert this Saturday, as heavy rains are expected to bring dangerous flooding, especially in low-lying and burn scar regions.
Authorities have warned that the flooding could quickly impact travel and pose serious safety risks. Here’s everything you need to know to stay safe.
Flood Watch in Effect Until Midnight
The National Weather Service in Grand Junction has issued a Flood Watch that will remain in effect until midnight tonight. The watch covers several counties, including:
Mesa
Delta
Garfield
Eagle
These areas are bracing for strong, slow-moving storms that could dump large amounts of rain in a short time.
Burn scars left behind from past wildfires, such as Deer Creek, Elk, and Turner Gulch, are at highest risk. These areas don’t absorb water well, which increases the chance of flash flooding.
Travel Could Become Risky This Evening
Roads in low-lying areas are expected to flood quickly, especially portions of Interstate 70 through Mesa County. Emergency officials are urging people to:
Avoid flooded roads
Use alternate routes if necessary
Delay non-essential travel until conditions improve
If you’re already on the road when heavy rain starts, drive slowly and carefully. Don’t try to cross flooded roads — water might be deeper than it looks, and just a few inches can sweep a car away.
Stay Alert and Be Prepared to Move
Residents living near rivers, creeks, and other flood-prone zones should stay alert. Authorities are advising everyone in these areas to:
Keep mobile phones charged
Stay connected with local weather updates
Be ready to move to higher ground if needed
This is especially important after dark, when it’s harder to see rising water or washed-out roads.
Storms Will Weaken Overnight
The good news is that the storms are expected to lose strength by late tonight. By Sunday, drier weather will return, and sunny skies are expected to dominate for the next few days. Here’s a quick look at the five-day weather forecast for Grand Junction:
| Day | Forecast | High Temp | Low Temp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Sunny | 79°F | 54°F |
| Monday | Sunny | 85°F | 55°F |
| Tuesday | Sunny | 84°F | 54°F |
| Wednesday | Sunny | 86°F | 54°F |
| Thursday | Mostly Sunny | 84°F | 58°F |
Although the rain will stop soon, the fire danger may rise next week as the ground dries out and temperatures climb.
Stay Informed and Ready for Changes
Even though the main flood threat might fade tonight, officials warn that new alerts could be issued if the rain lingers longer than expected. That’s why it’s important to stay connected with local news and weather updates through radio, TV, or trusted apps.
Flash floods can develop quickly, especially in areas with poor drainage or where the land has been damaged by fires. Being prepared and aware can make a big difference in staying safe.
The flooding threat in Grand Junction and surrounding counties is serious, especially for those near burn scar zones and low-lying roads.
As the rain pours down this evening, it’s crucial to avoid risky travel, stay informed, and prepare to act if waters rise. Once this weather system passes, a dry and sunny week is expected — but for now, caution is key. Stay safe and be alert.
