textproduct: Grand Junction

KEY MESSAGES

- Hot and dry conditions continue into the weekend. Gusty winds at times may cause elevated fire weather where fuels are critical, especially on Saturday. - Record highs are forecast for most locations Thursday through Saturday, including the all-time record high for the month of March.

DISCUSSION

Issued at 910 PM MDT Wed Mar 18 2026

RECORD WARMTH THROUGH SATURDAY:

High pressure continues to build over the western US over the next few days. Abnormally warm temperatures and dry conditions are still the focus with afternoon highs 15-25 degrees above normal through Saturday. Record highs are very likely during this stretch. In fact, we are on track to break the all-time record high for the month of March at KGJT. 81 will be the number to beat. A system moving over the northern Rockies will cause mid level winds to increase ahead of a weak cold front on Saturday. This along with record heat may cause elevated fire weather where fuels are critical.

LOOKING AHEAD:

The cold front pushes through the area on Sunday so temperatures cool down a bit, but record highs continue to dot the forecast area into next week. Precipitation chances return with this front on Sunday. Mainly targeting the northern portion of the Divide. Amounts are on the minor side for now. Lower levels will likely be too dry for much measurable preciptation.

AVIATION /12Z TAFS THROUGH 12Z FRIDAY/

Issued at 505 AM MDT Thu Mar 19 2026

Expect VFR conditions and clear skies through the TAF period. Winds will be light terrain driven through the morning, becoming generally westerly to northwesterly at about 10kts with gusts 20-25 kts between 18Z and 01Z mostly at the mountain TAF sites. Otherwise, the lower valley winds will remain light and terrain driven.

GJT WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES

CO...None. UT...None.