Wonderful Easter weekend expected

Temperatures to peak in the mid-fifties, with freeze watches in effect for valleys

Apr. 3, 2026 at 11:54am

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted earth tones and soft, diffused light, depicting the grand scale of snow-capped mountain peaks rising above a small town nestled in the valley below, conveying the sublime power of nature.The stunning natural beauty of the Colorado Rocklands draws visitors from near and far to enjoy the region's outdoor splendor during the Easter holiday weekend.Grand Junction Today

While today is going to be a bit below average in temperature, Easter weekend is expected to be lovely and sunny across the western slope of Colorado. Temperatures are forecast to steadily increase each day, reaching the mid-fifties, but freeze watches and warnings have been issued for overnight lows dipping below freezing in the valleys of eastern Utah and western Colorado.

Why it matters

The Easter holiday weekend is a major travel and recreation period for many families in the region, so the weather forecast has significant implications for outdoor plans and activities. The freeze warnings also carry important safety considerations for agriculture and infrastructure.

The details

A cold front will deliver 6-12 inches of new snow to the Flat Tops, Elkheads, and Park Range mountains tonight, with lesser amounts down into the central mountains and San Juans. However, the National Weather Service has allowed winter weather advisories to expire, as significant accumulations are not expected. Drier and warmer conditions will start the new week, with a stormier pattern returning by the end of the week.

  • Tonight, temperatures are expected to stay below freezing - around 30 degrees.
  • Freeze Watches have been put into effect for Saturday morning for most valleys on the Western Slope, and a few more may be needed into Sunday.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related watches, warnings, and advisories.

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The takeaway

The Easter weekend weather forecast calls for a pleasant and sunny respite, with temperatures climbing into the mid-fifties, but overnight freeze watches and warnings remain in effect for the valleys - an important consideration for agriculture, infrastructure, and outdoor recreation plans.