Denver is off to a bright, blue-sky start on Friday, May 15, and the city is racing into a summer preview with afternoon highs headed for the mid-80s. It is a dry, patio-perfect setup for most neighborhoods, though gustier pockets near the foothills could rattle a few umbrellas. The calm will not last long: the pattern turns more unsettled by Sunday and into early next week.
Afternoon Heat And Gusts
Look for a high near 85°F with a light southeast breeze that increases to about 5 to 9 mph, with gusts up to around 17 mph this afternoon. Low humidity will keep the air feeling crisp despite the warmth, and most outdoor plans should be comfortable if you avoid the harshest midday sun. Officials recommend securing loose patio furniture and shade sails before lunchtime, according to the National Weather Service.
Near-Critical Fire Weather
Forecasters say the mix of dry air and gusty winds will push parts of the eastern plains into elevated to near-critical fire weather conditions today. There are no watches or warnings posted as of the latest outlook, but officials advise steering clear of open burning and holding off on spark-producing work in dry grass. Those concerns were highlighted in this morning’s forecast discussion from the National Weather Service.
Weekend Storms And Mountain Snow
Shower and thunderstorm chances pick up by Saturday afternoon and become more likely Sunday, with the eastern plains holding the best odds for stronger storms. Monday turns noticeably cooler across the metro, with highs dropping to the low 50s, while the mountains are on track to see accumulating snow above about 8,500 feet. Some storms late Sunday into Monday could deliver large hail and gusty winds, so it is wise to keep outdoor plans flexible and check for updates before heading into the high country.
What To Bring And When
For afternoon plans, pack water and sun protection, and throw in a light layer if you will be near the foothills or mountains later in the day. Secure loose gear at home, and if you are traveling into the high country on Monday, be ready for colder conditions and wet or wintry roads above 8,500 feet.
