Denver woke to clear skies and dry air Sunday morning, but the easy start will give way to another furnace-like day. Highs are expected to reach about 97 degrees, with smoke hanging over the metro and a small chance of showers or thunderstorms later in the afternoon. A Heat Advisory remains in effect through 8 p.m. Sunday.
Afternoon Smoke Could Turn Gusty
The smoke is expected to linger before 3 p.m., followed by mostly sunny skies and a slight chance of showers or thunderstorms. The regular forecast calls for north-northwest winds of 3 to 13 mph, with gusts up to 21 mph, but the National Weather Service warns that high-based showers could produce sudden stronger wind gusts.
Gusts of 30 to 45 mph may be common near those showers, with isolated gusts reaching 55 mph. Rainfall could be limited, but the wind shifts and brief bursts may still affect outdoor plans and driving, according to the National Weather Service.
Heat Hangs On Through Tuesday
Monday and Tuesday will bring more mostly sunny skies and highs near 97 and 98 degrees, respectively. Monday has a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3 p.m., while Tuesday’s storm chance begins after noon, with either day capable of producing gusty outflow winds.
Overnight lows should stay in the mid-60s, offering only modest relief after the afternoon heat. Smoke may ease somewhat Monday, but the combination of hot temperatures, dry air and direct sun will keep heat illness concerns in play.
Midweek Brings A Noticeable Cooldown
The pattern changes Wednesday, when the high is expected to reach about 91 degrees and storm chances rise after noon. Showers and thunderstorms become likely Wednesday night, with a low near 60, followed by a much cooler and wetter stretch.
Thursday’s high should be around 82 degrees with widespread showers and thunderstorms possible, while Friday may top out near 79. Storm chances remain elevated Saturday, when the high is expected to reach about 80 degrees; locally heavy rain and flooding will be possible in parts of the region, though the exact locations remain uncertain.
Heat Advisory Calls For Extra Caution
The advisory covers the Denver metro area, western suburbs and parts of the Urban Corridor, including Boulder, through 8 p.m. Sunday. The National Weather Service recommends drinking plenty of fluids, staying in air conditioning when possible, avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day and checking on relatives and neighbors.
People looking for local relief can contact 211 to ask about cooling-center resources, as advised by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Anyone experiencing signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke should move to a cooler place and seek medical help.
