Denver is set to swap heat for soaking rains as a cool, unsettled pattern settles in through the weekend and into early next week. Afternoon temperatures are expected to stay in the 70s, with highs slipping from the upper 70s to the mid-70s as showers and storms become more widespread.
Forecast details
– Friday: Scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible in the afternoon, with the first bands of rain likely forming around 4 to 5 p.m. Across the Denver metro, showers may roll through early evening and linger into the overnight.
– Weekend: The rain chances look to persist with Saturday offering a similar setup to Friday. Some isolated cells could bring heavier rain at times, though the overall pattern remains showery rather than a continuous downpour.
– Sunday into Monday: Forecasters say this period carries the higher potential for significant rain and flooding in some areas. There is higher confidence for flooding threats south of the Denver metro, particularly across the Palmer Divide and into Colorado’s plains.
– Rain and flood risk: The National Weather Service has highlighted a marginal risk of excessive rainfall for the I-25 corridor, Front Range, and northeastern Colorado plains Sunday into Monday, with the outlook suggesting some storms could drop as much as 1.5 inches of rain in 30 minutes in isolated spots. Burn scar areas are especially at risk for flash flooding, with Alexander Mountain noted as the most prone.
– Temperatures: Saturday’s high is forecast around 79 degrees, dropping to about 76 degrees on Sunday. Afternoon highs are expected to stay in the 70s through at least Thursday of next week, much cooler than the recent heat. By contrast, Denver’s average high for this time of year is around 87 degrees.
What to watch and safety notes
– Environmental concerns: In burn scar zones, flash flooding can occur rapidly after heavy rain. Urban areas may see minor flooding of roads and underpasses.
– Travel: If you must drive, avoid flooded roadways and underpasses. Roadways can flood quickly in heavier downpours, even if you don’t see standing water at the start.
– Updates: Forecasts can change as storms develop. Expect periodic updates, and check local dashboards and weather alerts for the latest watches or warnings.
Why this pattern is happening
A cold front moving through the region is ushering cooler air into Colorado, allowing more moisture to rise and fuel showers and storms in the afternoons and evenings. High pressure is sliding out of the way, enabling more widespread rain activity as we move into the weekend and next week.
Summary
The Denver area is in for a cool, wet spell after a stretch of heat, with a series of after-school and evening rain chances this Friday, continuing through the weekend and into Monday. The strongest flood concerns focus on the Palmer Divide, Colorado plains, and burn scar regions, with the possibility of heavy downpours in isolated spots. Temperatures will hover in the 70s rather than the 80s, offering a welcome cooldown.
Hopeful note
While the rain brings travel hassles and flood caution, it also offers relief from heat and can help ease dry conditions across parts of the region. Stay weather-aware, but expect a refreshing change that could bring greener landscapes and lower temperatures for a few days.
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