Monsoonal Moisture Brings Flash Flood Threat to Southwest Colorado and Southeast Utah 8/23

Photo byNational Weather Service

Heavy Rain and Storms Expected to Impact the Region Through the Weekend

GRAND JUNCTION — Issued by the National Weather Service at 3:01 AM MDT on Thursday, August 22, 2024.

Monsoon Rains to Hit Western Colorado and Eastern Utah

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Junction has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for eastern Utah and western Colorado due to the influx of deep monsoonal moisture into the region. Afternoon and evening thunderstorms are expected today, bringing threats of gusty winds, small hail, and heavy rainfall. The heaviest rainfall is forecast for southwest Colorado and southeast Utah, where a Flash Flood Watch remains in effect.

Flash Flood Risks and Storm Impacts

With the arrival of heavy monsoon rains, flash flooding is a significant concern in the areas under the Flash Flood Watch, including the Paradox Valley, the Four Corners region, and the Uncompahgre Plateau. The NWS warns that some of these storms may produce intense rainfall rates, potentially leading to localized flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

Residents and visitors in affected areas should remain cautious, especially near streams, rivers, and normally dry washes that could quickly flood during heavy rains.

Weekend Outlook: Reduced Coverage of Storms

While showers and thunderstorms will continue into the weekend, the coverage of storms is expected to decrease on Saturday and Sunday. A pattern shift early next week is forecast to bring drier conditions, reducing the risk of further flooding.

Spotter Contributions Welcome

Although spotter activation is not anticipated today or tonight, the NWS encourages weather spotters to report rainfall amounts and any observed flooding. This information is vital for the NWS to track the storms' impact and issue timely warnings.

Seek Out Updates

Weather Watches, Warnings & Advisories are frequently updated by the NWS. Please look for updates to this report from the National Weather Service, or your local news channels and NOAA All Hazards.

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