Western Colorado Flood Watch: Heavy Rain, Mudslide Threat Through Late Saturday
GRAND JUNCTION, COLORADO — Heavy rainfall fueled by tropical moisture is raising the risk of flash flooding and mudslides across western and central Colorado through late Saturday night. The National Weather Service in Grand Junction has issued a Flood Watch for large portions of the state, warning residents to stay alert for rapidly changing weather conditions and possible road hazards.
Flood Watch Areas and Key Impacts
The Flood Watch remains in effect through early Sunday morning for regions including the Central Colorado River Basin, Grand Valley, Gunnison River Valley, and mountain ranges such as the Flat Tops, Gore, and Elk Mountains.
Forecasters warn that excessive rainfall could lead to flash flooding in slot canyons, dry washes, and steep terrain, especially areas previously burned by wildfires. Both urban and rural flood-prone zones may experience rapid water rises and localized inundation during the heaviest downpours.
Travel Hazards and Road Impacts
Drivers should use extreme caution, as rockslides and mudslides are possible across the West Elk and Sawatch Mountains, particularly on slopes already saturated from earlier rains.
According to meteorologists, flooding and debris flows could impact sections of U.S. Highway 50, Interstate 70, and roads near the Uncompahgre River, where runoff may accumulate quickly. Motorists are reminded to never drive through flooded roads, as even shallow water can be dangerous.
Safety Precautions for Residents
Residents living in low-lying areas or near rivers and creeks are urged to monitor official forecasts, secure outdoor items, and prepare for potential evacuation alerts if conditions worsen. The National Weather Service recommends staying away from canyons and slopes prone to landslides, as heavy rain could trigger sudden ground movement.
Flooding threats are expected to linger into early Sunday morning before the moisture plume begins to move eastward. However, forecasters caution that additional rainfall is still possible across much of the Western Slope through the weekend.
Stay connected with NapervilleLocal.com for continuing weather coverage, flood alerts, and safety updates across Colorado and the western United States.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.