Seasonal changes in the weather pattern are bringing a wide range of conditions over the coming days as western Colorado looks for snow while parts of the southeast plains will see highs in the 80s.

Eastern Plains

Temperatures are warmer Saturday follow a week that saw clouds and rain across the area. Lamar and La Junta will see upper 70s, while most of the remaining area will be in the low to mid-70s, with a few pockets of upper 60s. Storms are expected to develop later in the day, with some becoming strong and capable of producing hail along with gusty winds. Northeast Colorado storms could be severe and produce one-inch hail. Storms should end by mid- to late evening.

Closing out the weekend and starting the work week, southeast Colorado will remain relatively warm, with daytime highs ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s, cooling slightly Tuesday. Northeast Colorado can expect a sharper drop off, as temperatures in the 50s take hold Monday and Tuesday.

West Slope

A disturbance passing through western Colorado Saturday is bringing scattered showers and thunderstorms to the area. The risk for thunderstorms increases into the evening hours and overnight, with locally heavy rain.

Unsettled conditions continue into Sunday and the start of the work week. Higher elevations may see snow, especially areas north of Interstate 70 as a cold front stalls over the area. The snow level is expected to drop to 8,000 feet with much cooler air coming in. Combined with abundant moisture, moderate to heavy snowfall is a possibility, with potential for 4 – 8 inches of snow above 9,000 feet.

Over the coming days, lower elevations can expect temperatures mainly in the 60s and 70s during the day, falling to the 40s overnight. Craig will be noticeably cooler starting Sunday, as highs range from the mid-40s to low 50s.

Weather updates throughout the day can be found at http://KiowaCountyPress.net/weather.