Denver is waking up to clear, dry skies this Friday, June 12, with morning temperatures in the upper 50s and a quick warmup already underway. Full sunshine will push the high to around 91°F this afternoon, with winds swinging to the northwest and gusts ramping up later in the day, especially in the foothills.
Afternoon Heat And Gusts
Temperatures will surge into the low 90s, and the air will be about as thirsty as it gets. Humidity could drop into the single digits in portions of the lower elevations, leaving conditions extremely dry. Northwest winds should stay light to moderate overall, but stronger air aloft can mix down gusts of 25 to 30 mph in exposed neighborhoods and foothill corridors.
That combo of heat, wind, and bone-dry air will lead to elevated to near-critical fire weather across mountain and high-country areas this afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.
Cold Front Tonight And Cooler Weekend
A cold front slides through late tonight, knocking Saturday’s high back into the low 80s and setting up a further cool-down on Sunday, when highs on the plains are expected to land in the 60s to low 70s in some guidance. Scattered showers and a few thunderstorms are possible Sunday into Monday, mainly across the southern foothills and the Palmer Divide. Brief heavy downpours and gusty outflow winds are the main storm issues on the table.
Most spots will get at least a short break from the heat through the weekend before a warming trend creeps back in next week.
What This Means For You
If you have outdoor work or workouts planned, aim for the cooler morning or evening hours and bring extra water if you are out during the afternoon peak. Tie down or bring in loose yard items that could get tossed around in the gusts, and hold off on open burning or any spark-producing work while conditions stay this dry and breezy. Evening plans should be fine, but keep in mind that winds will turn north as the front moves through.
Earlier Coverage
We broke down the broader heat and fire concerns earlier this week in our midweek heat ignites fire danger Hoodline coverage, which includes background and cooling-center details. For the latest on any watches, warnings, or sudden changes, check with local officials before you head out.
