FXUS65 KGJT 190407

AFDGJT



Area Forecast Discussion

National Weather Service Grand Junction CO

1007 PM MDT Wed Mar 18 2026



.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 /00Z TAFS THROUGH 00Z THURSDAY/...

Issued at 519 PM MDT Wed Mar 18 2026



Gusts of 18-25 kts are still ongoing at KASE, KEGE, KRIL, KGJT,

KGUC, and KHDN. However, winds are expected to die down between

00-02Z. Calm, terrain-driven winds settle in for most terminals,

though some breezy drainage winds may develop over KGJT and KMTJ

throughout the morning. Look for high-elevation terminals to see

more 20-25 kt gusts tomorrow afternoon. Otherwise, skies are

clear and VFR conditions persist.



&&



.GJT WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...



CO...None.

UT...None.



&&



$$



DISCUSSION...TGJT

AVIATION...TGJT