Denver is starting clear and relatively mild this Wednesday morning, but the heat is waiting in the wings. Expect sunny skies, a high near 96°F, and east winds around 3 to 12 mph with gusts up to about 20 mph this afternoon. Overnight, temperatures only fall into the mid 60s while breezy south winds could gust higher late tonight. The week stays dry and hot across most neighborhoods, with little relief after dark and the warmest readings arriving this weekend.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
East to southeast breezes will crank up this afternoon across the metro, which can make the outdoor heat feel even more relentless and send lightweight items skittering across patios and yards. The forecast mentions afternoon gusts near 20 mph and stronger southerly gusts overnight. The air will be dry enough to raise elevated fire weather concerns in some foothill and plains areas, but conditions are expected to remain below Red Flag criteria, according to the National Weather Service. If you work outside, take regular breaks, carry water, and secure loose objects on patios and at job sites.
Weekend Highs And Storm Chances
Temperatures climb through the weekend. Saturday is headed for the mid to upper 90s, around 97°F, and Sunday could push toward 99°F in parts of the city, likely making it the hottest day of the week. Storm chances stay low on the plains this weekend and are mostly confined to the high country, although a few storms could clip the foothills Sunday evening. Forecasters are still eyeing a bigger change next week as subtropical moisture returns, which would raise the odds of more widespread afternoon and evening thunderstorms. For background on the developing heat pattern, see our earlier Hoodline coverage on the weekend heat wave.
Cooling Options And Safety Tips
If you do not have air conditioning or just need a break from the heat, the City can open daytime cooling centers when a Heat Advisory is issued. Recreation centers and public libraries are typically the go-to spots. Call 2 1 1 or check the City's heat resources page for locations and activation criteria. Keep pets and sensitive people in cool, shaded areas, avoid strenuous activity during peak afternoon hours, and plan outdoor errands for morning or evening. The City's activation process and list of typical cooling locations are outlined on the City of Denver website.
What To Watch
Keep an eye on gusty afternoons through Friday and the weekend heat spike, and set weather alerts or check forecasts before outdoor plans. We will update readers if any heat advisories, fire weather highlights, or more significant storm threats are issued.
