Colorado’s high country is in for a busy day of showers and thunderstorms on Tuesday, July 22. The San Juans and Central Divide Mountains are facing gusty winds, soaking rain, and active mountain storms.
While the higher elevations will see the most weather activity, areas like Grand Junction and nearby valleys will experience lighter rain and clearing skies as the day progresses.
What to Expect in Colorado’s Mountainous Regions
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, the scattered storms will continue through the morning, particularly in the mountain areas of Ouray, Gunnison, and Steamboat Springs. These storms could bring gusty winds and wetting rain in various pockets. As the day goes on, drier air will move in from the west, helping to push the storms away by the afternoon.
For those in the mountains, be prepared for potentially dangerous conditions, including wet roads and sudden gusts. It is advised to avoid high mountain hikes during active storms to stay safe from lightning and slippery paths.
Weather in Lower Elevations
In Grand Junction and the valleys near the Utah border, the weather will be calmer. Expect cloudy skies this morning with isolated sprinkles, but the clouds will break by midday, making way for increasing sunshine and warmer temperatures.
By the afternoon, temperatures will rise to the upper 80s to low 90s across the region, giving way to a typical summer pattern.
Tips for Staying Safe
Mountain roads: Drivers should remain cautious on wet mountain roads. The combination of rain and gusty winds may cause slippery conditions and poor visibility.
Outdoor activities: If you’re planning to hike or be outside in the mountains, consider waiting until after the storms pass. Lightning and strong winds can make mountain activities dangerous.
Secure outdoor items: With gusty winds expected, secure any outdoor furniture or items that might be blown around.
A Hotter Pattern Coming Soon
As the weather clears in the mountains, warmer air will build into the region through the week. Expect hotter and sunnier conditions by the weekend. Stay tuned for any weather updates or additional advisories as needed.
While Colorado’s high country faces a day of scattered thunderstorms and gusty winds, the lower elevations, including Grand Junction, will experience a break in the weather by midday.
Residents and visitors in the mountains should remain cautious of stormy conditions, while those in the valleys can look forward to warmer and sunnier weather. It’s important to stay updated on the latest forecasts as conditions may change.
