Denver woke up under a blanket of clouds and low 40s Thursday morning, April 30, and it is not getting much friendlier as the day rolls on. Cool and damp is the theme, with a steady push of showers and embedded thunderstorms expected by midday that will hold highs near 45°F. Anyone eyeing a quick escape to the high country should plan on wintry conditions through Friday and be ready for slower travel.
Afternoon Showers And Thunderstorms
A morning chance of rain showers is expected to ramp up to numerous showers and thunderstorms by midday and through the afternoon, with about an 80% chance of precipitation and a high near 45°F. According to the National Weather Service, most spots will see between one-tenth and one-quarter of an inch of new rainfall, with some higher totals possible over the southern foothills. Stronger cells could bring brief heavy downpours and reduced visibility, so drivers should watch for slick spots on already wet roads.
Mountain Snow And Travel
Up high, it is still very much winter. Late-season mountain snow is the main travel concern, with forecasters calling for 5 to 13 inches in the high country through Friday morning. Snow levels are expected to hover around 6,500 to 7,000 feet, with the heaviest snowfall south of I-70. A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for portions of the high country through 6 a.m. Friday, May 1, and travel over the higher passes is likely to be slow or hazardous during the event. If you are heading west, it is a good day to give yourself extra time or postpone nonessential trips altogether.
Commute Tips And Weekend Outlook
For Denver-area commuters, heavier showers this afternoon could bring pockets of reduced visibility and slick roads. Smaller airports may briefly dip into MVFR conditions under stronger storms, so travelers should check with their carrier before heading out. The Colorado Department of Transportation is reminding drivers that traction and chain laws remain in force through May 31 and is urging people to use COtrip for real-time road updates before heading into the mountains. The pattern turns friendlier for the weekend, with a warmer and drier stretch and highs climbing into the upper 60s to mid-70s by Sunday, May 3, although another round of showers and thunderstorms is possible early next week.
