For 5/1/09: Regional radar is showing the remnants of older systems coming together over Grand junction early but these should stay clear of the area. We can expect an increase in the cloud cover over the higher terrain and gustier conditions earlier as a result. Today is a day of transition and this southern system setting up for the weekend seems to be gaining some strength.

Temperatures overnight have stayed consistent all week rising just a bit last night with Crested Butte reporting 27 degrees while Gunnison dropped to 26 degrees. Increasing cloud cover throughout the day may limit highs but the low 60’s are likely again valley wide. Tonight we will see lows holding in the 30’s as this warmer southern system sets up. This will inhibit a strong freeze and will affect backcountry snowpack conditions. Highs through Saturday will hold to the low 40’s with the snow line holding right around 8500 or 9000ft.

The brunt of this system will be on us through Saturday afternoon with remnants lingering through Sunday and decreasing into the beginning of next week. A snow rain mix is likely at the lower elevations with a sloppier mix building the higher you climb in elevation. The combination of warm temperatures and additional moisture will accelerate the snow melt so expect a rise in the local river levels. 

Look for a complete Crested Butte and Gunnison weather report, 24 hour trends and real time weather information now available at WWW.CBTV.TV.