Freeze Watch Issued for Western Colorado as Temperatures Drop to 28°F
GRAND JUNCTION, CO. — The National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Junction has issued a Freeze Watch for much of western Colorado, warning residents to prepare for sub-freezing temperatures expected Thursday night through Friday morning (October 16–17).
Forecasters say the incoming cold front could send overnight lows as low as 28°F, with the chill expected to impact several river basins, including the Yampa, Central Colorado River, and San Juan River basins.
Cities under the watch include Rifle, Steamboat Springs, Cortez, Durango, Pagosa Springs, and Eagle.
Cold Air Mass Could Damage Crops and Gardens
The NWS cautioned that the freeze could result in widespread frost, posing risks to unprotected crops, gardens, and outdoor plumbing. Homeowners and farmers are advised to:
- Cover or bring indoors sensitive plants and potted vegetation
- Drain and disconnect garden hoses and sprinkler systems
- Protect pets and livestock from cold exposure overnight
Forecasters note that this will likely be one of the coldest nights of the season so far, as cooler, drier air moves into the region following a week of shifting fall weather patterns.
Widespread Chill Expected Across the Western Slope
The Freeze Watch extends from the Four Corners region northward through the Yampa Valley, covering much of western and southwestern Colorado.
Meteorologists say residents in higher elevations should expect colder conditions and heavier frost accumulation, especially in sheltered valleys where heat escapes quickly after sunset.
“Temperatures will dip well below freezing in several mountain valleys,” NWS forecasters said. “Sensitive vegetation could be damaged or killed if left unprotected.”
Freeze Watch May Be Upgraded
The NWS will continue to monitor temperature trends through Thursday evening and could upgrade the advisory to a Freeze Warning if forecasts confirm colder overnight lows.
Residents are encouraged to check local forecasts frequently and stay updated through weather.gov/gjt or their local media outlets.
As fall transitions into early winter, this week’s cold snap serves as a reminder that freezing nights are returning to western Colorado — and now is the time to prepare.
Residents in affected areas are encouraged to share their local weather updates and cold-weather preparedness tips at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
