Denver started the day in deep-freeze mode, with lows sinking into the 20s across the metro and eastern plains and frosty patches stacking up near the foothills. The sting is mostly confined to the overnight and early morning hours, with sunshine expected to nudge readings well above freezing by midday. Until then, gardeners should treat newly budded plants and any above-ground irrigation as vulnerable.
Freeze Warning Through 8 AM
The National Weather Service Denver/Boulder has a Freeze Warning posted through 8 AM MDT, with a stretch of sub-freezing temperatures in the upper teens to mid-20s on the plains likely to damage tender vegetation and unprotected irrigation systems. If you are behind on chores, this is the last call to disconnect garden hoses, drain above-ground sprinkler lines, and drag potted plants inside before the cold finishes the job. Conditions should relax once the sun has a few hours to warm the ground later this morning.
Afternoon Fire Weather Risk
Once the freeze eases, the day flips to a very different problem: fire weather. Gusty winds paired with low humidity will bring an elevated fire-weather threat this afternoon, especially across the northern and northeastern plains where a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 1 PM to 7 PM MDT. We first highlighted this warm-to-cold swing in our sunny 70s to snow smackdown, and today, it tightens the timing for critical conditions. Officials urge people to skip outdoor burning, avoid anything that can throw sparks, and secure loose yard debris during the warning window.
What To Expect This Weekend
After the frosty start, today turns bright and dry with a high near 56°F and light north-northeast winds. Temperatures climb steadily through the weekend, reaching about 72°F on Sunday and pushing into the upper 70s to low 80s early next week. The pattern stays dry, which means afternoon fire-weather concerns will linger in exposed areas. Looking ahead, keep an eye on forecasts later in the week, as a passing system could bring a slight chance of showers and mountain snow sometime between late Thursday and Friday.
