Denver is starting the day under clear, dry skies, with temperatures sitting in the mid-50s this morning. A bright, warm Saturday is on tap, with highs headed for the upper 60s to around 70°F, so it will feel more like early spring than late February. Outdoor plans should stay a bit flexible, though, since changing wind and humidity later in the day could cause problems for any burning or exposed, grassy areas.
Afternoon Heat And Fire Weather
The National Weather Service is calling for "elevated to critical fire weather again on Saturday" and has issued a Red Flag Warning for parts of the northern plains and foothills from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Relative humidity is expected to tumble into the single digits to low teens, and gusts of 20-35 mph are possible across the eastern metro. Along the Wyoming-Colorado border, gusts could run closer to 25-40 mph. This is not the day to light a burn pile: avoid open burning, hold off on spark-producing yard work, and secure loose outdoor items while the warning is in effect.
Weekend Forecast
Saturday stays mostly sunny with south-southeast winds around 6-9 mph and a high near 70°F, easing back a few degrees late in the afternoon. Saturday night turns mostly cloudy with a low near 39-42°F. Sunday will be partly sunny with a high around 65°F and lighter winds. In the high country, light snow showers are possible late this weekend, with snow levels near 9,000 feet and generally modest totals of about 1-6 inches at higher elevations.
Next Week Rain And Mountain Snow
The pattern flips late Monday into Wednesday as a Pacific low moves toward Colorado and pulls in more moisture. There is a slight chance of rain Monday evening, with rain more likely on Tuesday as highs dip into the low 50s. The mountains could see heavier snow in the middle of the week, with some favored areas possibly picking up around 3-11 inches. Anyone heading into the high country Tuesday or Wednesday should plan for wet roads and rapidly changing travel conditions.
This story updates earlier coverage of gusty, dry conditions and a warming trend. See yesterday's Hoodline post for background and earlier tips on wind and fire fears.
Plan Ahead
Skip outdoor burning while the Red Flag Warning is active, bring pets and grills closer to shelter if you can, and delay power-tool work that might throw sparks. Tie down patio furniture and other loose items, and drivers should be ready for occasional strong gusts on exposed stretches of highway. For official watches and warnings, check the National Weather Service and your local fire district before heading out.
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