Colorado – Brown grasses rustle and dust lifts across open fields as the air dries out along the Front Range. Around Denver, winter takes a sharp turn toward fire danger as strong winds and very low humidity build into Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver, a Fire Weather Watch is in effect from Sunday morning through Sunday afternoon. Southwest winds increase to 10 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching 30 to 45 mph. Relative humidity could drop as low as 13 percent. These conditions favor rapid fire spread.
The watch covers much of the Denver metro area, including Jefferson, Douglas, Boulder, and Broomfield counties, as well as the southern foothills and Palmer Divide. Areas above and below 6,000 feet are included, especially where vegetation remains dry.
Saturday stays quiet but sets the stage. Clouds increase and temperatures climb into the low 60s. Winds remain light early, then gradually turn southwest. By Sunday, sunshine returns, but conditions deteriorate quickly as winds strengthen by late morning.
Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Even small sparks from yard equipment, trailer chains, or cigarettes could start a fast-moving grass fire. Emergency managers urge residents to secure loose items and avoid activities that create heat or flame.
Travel impacts remain limited, though high-profile vehicles may feel crosswinds along I-25, I-70, and U.S. 36 during peak gusts Sunday afternoon. Blowing dust could briefly reduce visibility in open areas.
Monday brings improvement. Winds ease, humidity rises slightly, and temperatures cool into the low 60s. The first full workweek of 2026 starts calmer, with quieter weather through Tuesday before colder air and snow chances appear later in the week.
Stay alert for possible Red Flag Warnings if conditions worsen. Fire danger can escalate quickly on days like this.
Are you noticing stronger winds where you live today?
Five Day Outlook for Denver, Colorado
Today: Increasing clouds, high near 63
Sunday: Sunny, windy, fire danger, high near 67
Monday: Sunny, calmer, high near 61
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 57
Wednesday: Sunny, cooler, high near 55
