Denver residents are bracing for a shift in weather patterns today, as a 20 percent chance of rain emerges later in the afternoon, with the National Weather Service (NWS) forecasting increasing clouds and a windy setting. According to the National Weather Service, the city will see a high near 62 degrees before a gusty change to northwest winds that could reach as high as 44 mph. Later tonight, a blend of rain and snow is expected, with a 30 percent chance for precipitation and minimal snow accumulation. Denver could also experience temperatures plummeting to around 28 degrees, overlaid by continuing strong winds.
In what comes as a complicated forecast, while heavy snow is unlikely on the plains, residents east of Sterling, Akron, and Limon should prepare for a mix of light snow and blowing snow on Tuesday evening. Despite the snow, today's predictions remain preoccupied with wind, gusting up to 65 mph on the eastern plains. As reported by the National Weather Service, the combination of these forces will likely impact travel across the mountain passes and potentially over Monument Hill as well.
The week ahead does not suggest respite from windy conditions, with gusts of 40 to 60 mph forecasted across the plains this Wednesday. A Red Flag Warning is in effect for today from 10 AM through 4 PM due to high winds and low humidity in several counties including Jefferson, Douglas, and Boulder, heightening concerns for potential fires. The NWS Denver warns that conditions will be favorable for rapid fire spread. Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that may produce a spark and start a wildfire.
The ongoing weather turbulence extends into the latter part of the week, with Thursday and Friday singled out by the NWS for heightened fire weather risk across lower elevations. In the mountains, snow showers persisting from Thursday night into Saturday could challenge road conditions. Mountain snow showers, as reported by the NWS Denver, may continue to prompt slick commuting. Spotters are encouraged to relay reports of high winds or snowfall as the region navigates through this period of erratic weather.
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