It’s Grand Junction’s Warmest Week of the Year So Far: Here’s Why

At some point, Grand Junction and Western Colorado will have a near-normal winter again; we are just not exactly sure when that will be. Just like last February, the month ended with near 70-degree temperatures heading into March, making the weather feel more like mid-April.

Grand Junction’s average March high sits around 50 degrees. When temperatures reach the mid-to-upper 60s the first week of March, it feels like we have jumped ahead on the calendar. Keep scrolling to see what’s causing the warmest week of the year so far in Western Colorado.

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What “Unseasonably Warm” Really Means in Grand Junction

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Meteorologists use the term “unseasonably warm” when temperatures run significantly above historical averages for a given date. In Grand Junction, the typical high temperature in March is about 50.7°F, with nighttime lows near 32°F. When forecast highs jump to the upper-60s, that’s roughly 15–20 degrees warmer than normal, which is why the current conditions are drawing attention across Western Colorado.

Why Western Colorado Is Seeing Such Warm Weather

Despite a couple of rounds of mountain snow, a large high-pressure system has parked itself over the Western United States, helping to create clear skies and abundant sunshine across Colorado. High pressure typically keeps cloud cover low, limiting storm activity and allowing daytime temperatures in our valley areas to rise. Without incoming moisture or cold fronts, warm and dry days begin to stack up.

Early Hikes, Patio Weather, and a Few Safety Reminders

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Sunshine and warm afternoons mean residents are out early at our parks, trailheads, and riding bikes along the Colorado Riverfront Trail. I have even seen people eating outdoors in downtown Grand Junction, even as early as late February. While these warm spells kick off the outdoor fun ahead of schedule, it certainly does not mean winter is over (especially in the mountains). With warm temperatures and dry conditions, we all must be very careful this year to avoid open flames and remain aware of burn restrictions.