Denver, Colorado – Strong winds and scattered thunderstorms will sweep across Colorado’s eastern plains and foothills Wednesday, with gusts up to 65 mph expected by late afternoon, making travel hazardous and outdoor conditions unpredictable.
According to the National Weather Service in Boulder, the best chance for storms will target higher terrain and northern portions of the plains, including Fort Collins, Greeley, and Sterling. Winds between 50 and 65 mph will accompany storm cells as they move eastward. A second wave of powerful winds is forecast to develop late Wednesday into Thursday morning near the Front Range foothills, where gusts could peak between 70 and 75 mph.
The combination of strong winds and fast-moving showers may impact I-25 and I-76, especially during the evening commute. Loose outdoor items should be secured, and high-profile vehicles should use caution, particularly on east-west roadways. Power outages and brief downpours could occur in some areas.
Temperatures will trend cooler than earlier in the week, with daytime highs in the 50s and 60s across most of the region. This shift comes as part of a broader pattern change across the central Rockies.
High wind alerts remain in effect through early Thursday. Additional advisories may be issued if storm intensity increases overnight.
