Denver and Northeast Colorado Brace for Potential Severe Weather with Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds

The National Weather Service in Denver has issued a hazardous weather outlook for parts of northeast and north central Colorado today and continuing through the evening. Scattered showers and thunderstorms, which are expected to develop this afternoon, may bring locally heavy rainfall and gusty winds, especially across the high country and along the I-25 corridor. According to the National Weather Service, strong to severe storms with large hail and damaging wind gusts will be possible, mainly along and east of a Sterling to Limon line.

For Denver, the weather remains mostly cloudy with the temperature sitting at a comfortable 72°F. However, residents should remain mindful of the weather conditions as the chance for thunderstorms could rapidly increase to become severe. The prediction is a 40 percent chance of rainfall and thunderstorms later in the day, with potential gusty winds as high as 29 mph. These conditions are mainly expected after 2 pm, with the weather gradually calming toward the evening.

Moving into Thursday, the weather is expected to take a more unsettled turn, with showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after noon. According to the National Weather Service, the pattern of scattered storms will persist, with a 60 percent chance of precipitation. It's been noted that the primary concern from these storms will be heavy rainfall which could produce flash flooding in the recent burn areas and especially in Elbert, Lincoln, and Washington Counties as those counties have recently received heavy rainfall.

Looking ahead to the weekend, the intensity and coverage of the storms are anticipated to slowly decrease starting Friday. Despite a lower chance of precipitation, there remains concern for flash flooding threats to burn areas. The potential for severe weather is not ruled out completely, Friday's storms could still manage to bring substantial precipitation. Spotter activation might not be necessary today or tonight, but the NWS has requested that reports of heavy rain, hail, and strong winds be shared, which could help to effectively monitor and respond to any hazardous conditions as they arise.