Hydrologic Outlook issued May 8 at 1:46PM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO

ESFGJT

Risk of areal flooding and elevated stream flows from rapid snowmelt

…EXISTING CONDITIONS…
Recent storms have brought several inches of new snow to mid to high
elevations (8500′ to 10,000′) over the San Juans mountains, nosing
along the Divide across Central Colorado. With forecast temperatures
running 5 to 15 degrees above normal and the potential for showers
and storms along the Divide each afternoon through the weekend, this
region of western Colorado is vulnerable to enhanced runoff and
elevated stream flows from rapid snowmelt.

…PRECIPITATION…
Isolated to scattered showers and storms developing each afternoon
favor high terrain across the southwest San Juans and along the
spine of the Divide. Due to warming conditions, precipitation in the
form of rain is possible as high as 10,000′. Although anticipated
storm totals are low, generally 0.1″ to 0.2″, rain on snow could
enhance the rate of snowmelt.

…STREAMFLOW CONDITIONS AND RUNOFF FORECASTS…
Streams and rivers in the area will see elevated flows of
dangerously cold water over the next several days. Low-lying areas
across mountainous terrain (8500′ to 10,000′) are most susceptible
to swelling of area streams and/or localized inundation.

Stay away from fast moving water and exercise caution near
riverbanks and streams.

Updated weather and water products and forecasts are available from
the NWS Grand Junction’s website at:

Www.weather.gov/gjt