Denver woke up to clear skies and a brisk 34°F on Wednesday morning, but the calm look is a bit of a fake-out. Temperatures are expected to climb to around 54°F, with scattered rain and snow showers possible around midday as southwest winds rev up through the afternoon.
Afternoon Gusts And The Commute
Southwest winds are forecast to run about 10 to 16 mph, with gusts that could hit 26 mph between roughly 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. That wind could knock temperatures back into the upper 40s by late afternoon, so it may feel cooler on the drive home than at lunch. Brief reductions in visibility and slick spots on bridges are possible if a heavier shower rolls through, and high-profile vehicles could feel the crosswinds on I-25 and other exposed stretches. These details come from the National Weather Service Denver/Boulder.
Tonight Into Thursday
A reinforcing cold front is set to arrive late Wednesday, bringing a shot at light snow before about 11 p.m., then partly cloudy skies with a low near 24°F and a late-night bump back toward the upper 20s. Winds will swing around to the west and strengthen overnight. The forecast discussion flags the potential for mountain-wave-driven gusts that could be very strong in and near the foothills, so travel in higher terrain may get dicey. Mountain roads are expected to see periods of snow and blowing snow through early Thursday, which could slow traffic or even prompt closures on the passes.
Fire Weather And Safety
Dry air teaming up with those gusty winds will keep fire weather concerns elevated across the eastern plains this afternoon, with Red Flag conditions highlighted for parts of Elbert and Lincoln counties. Officials advise avoiding outdoor burning and securing loose items in the yard. While the Denver metro is not under a Red Flag, the dry and breezy corridor just east of the city can still spark quick-moving spot fires, so residents are urged to take precautions and report any smoke. If you live near the foothills, it is also a good idea to tie down patio furniture and keep an eye out for any downed branches when the stronger gusts arrive.
Weekend Outlook
A second system slides in on Friday with a better chance of light snow Friday afternoon and night. Only minor accumulation is expected on the plains, but a few inches are possible in higher terrain before drier, sunnier weather settles in for the weekend. Early next week, temperatures trend warmer again, with highs heading toward the low 60s by Monday. For background on the warm-to-windy pattern flagged earlier this week, revisit our previous coverage, as per Hoodline.
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