Residents and visitors in Colorado can look forward to a mild and dry Thanksgiving week starting today, with sunny skies and comfortable afternoon temperatures dominating the forecast. This pleasant weather pattern across the state, particularly in western areas like Grand Junction, sets the stage for smooth holiday gatherings and travel without major disruptions from storms.
Thanksgiving Day Forecast Across Colorado
Thanksgiving Day on Thursday brings mostly sunny to partly cloudy conditions to much of Colorado. High temperatures will hover in the 50s for most areas, offering a welcome break from typical late November chill.
In Grand Junction, expect highs around 53 degrees with morning lows dipping into the 20s. Nearby Montrose will see similar weather at 52 degrees, while Delta and Cortez reach 55 and 54 degrees respectively. The mountains will be cooler with highs in the 40s, but still dry overall.
This mild outlook contrasts with last years colder snap, allowing families to enjoy outdoor activities like turkey trots or park visits without bundling up excessively. Experts note that such warmth helps reduce the risk of icy roads early in the holiday period.
National Travel Weather Impacts
As millions hit the roads and skies for Thanksgiving, weather across the US shows mixed signals with potential hiccups in several regions. Colorado travelers heading east or west should monitor updates closely to avoid surprises.
Rain could disrupt flights and drives from New York to Atlanta, while Chicago, Detroit, and Minneapolis face light showers. The Pacific Northwest around Seattle and Portland might see gloomier conditions with rain, but the Deep South stays warm in the 70s and 80s.
Wednesday looks quiet nationwide, with cooler temps in the 60s and 70s further south. By Thanksgiving, sunshine brightens the Southeast, though the Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest could remain overcast. Friday brings chillier air to the north, plus possible rain and snow near Omaha and Kansas City.
To illustrate potential travel hotspots, here is a table summarizing key areas and expected conditions:
| Region | Wednesday Conditions | Thanksgiving Day | Friday Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast (NY to DC) | Possible rain | Clearing skies | Cold with winds |
| Midwest (Chicago) | Light rain | Partly cloudy | Chilly, possible snow |
| Pacific Northwest | Rainy | Gloomy | Lingering showers |
| Deep South | Warm, 70s-80s | Sunny | Cool under sun |
| Rockies (Colorado) | Mild, dry | Sunny, 50s | Mild with mountain snow |
This table highlights why Colorado serves as a favorable starting point for trips, given its stable forecast.
Possible Rain and Snow This Weekend
While the holiday itself stays dry, a strengthening storm system eyes the weekend with heavy mountain snow and valley rain turning to snow by Sunday night. This could linger into Monday, affecting post-holiday returns.
In southern and southeastern Colorado, chances rise for precipitation Sunday through Monday, per monitoring from weather services. Higher elevations might accumulate several inches, impacting mountain passes like those near Breckenridge or Twin Lakes.
Travelers should prepare for variable conditions, especially if heading to ski areas. Recent patterns show such systems often bring beneficial snow for winter sports enthusiasts, boosting local economies in resort towns. Logical reasoning suggests packing extra layers and checking road conditions via apps, as sudden shifts are common in November.
For those planning drives through the mountains, consider these essential tips in bullet points:
- Equip vehicles with snow chains or all-season tires for unexpected flurries.
- Monitor real-time updates from state highway patrols to avoid closed routes.
- Carry emergency kits including blankets, water, and snacks for potential delays.
- Opt for early morning departures to beat afternoon snow buildup.
Local Update for the Next 24 Hours
Tonight in Grand Junction starts clear, with quick cooling from the low to mid 40s at 6 PM down to the mid to upper 30s by 8 PM. Temperatures drop further to the low to mid 30s by 10 PM, remaining mainly clear overnight.
Lows will settle near 31 degrees in Grand Junction, 27 in Montrose, 28 in Delta, 22 in Cortez, and 31 in Moab. Tuesday brings mostly sunny skies, warming from upper 20s and lower 30s in the morning to upper 40s and lower 50s by afternoon.
Highs reach about 50 degrees in Grand Junction, 47 in Montrose, 51 in Delta and Cortez, and 50 in Moab. This steady mildness continues the dry trend, ideal for pre-holiday preparations like shopping or decorating.
With nearly 82 million Americans traveling this Thanksgiving, Colorados favorable weather underscores its appeal as a destination. Stay informed on any shifts, and share your holiday plans or weather tips in the comments below to help fellow readers prepare.
