New Gap Weather Radar Set to Improve Forecasts in Gunnison Basin

The Gunnison Basin is preparing to improve its weather forecasting capabilities with the installation of a new gap weather radar. This radar is expected to provide more accurate data and enhance predictions related to water supply and weather patterns, an area that has historically experienced limited access to reliable forecasts due to its remote location.

The project is spearheaded by the Western Water and Weather Intelligence Center, which selected Gunnison County as the site for its first permanent ‘gap filling’ radar approximately three years ago. The choice was made primarily due to the county’s location at the headwaters of the Colorado River, alongside support from local officials including Emergency Manager Scott Morrill and Sonja Chavez, the general manager at the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District.

The weather station is set to be installed just south of Blue Mesa Reservoir on Big Mesa. The installation is planned for September and is anticipated to significantly enhance the area’s ability to forecast weather and water supply levels.