Colorado – Bright sunshine and dry air spread across the Front Range this morning, giving Denver and Boulder a springlike start to January. Pavement stays dry, jackets feel optional, and the warmth invites quick errands. That calm masks a sharp shift already lining up.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver/Boulder, highs climb near 60 degrees today and Wednesday, well above normal. Gusty southwest winds increase this afternoon, especially along the I-25 corridor, raising fire weather concerns on the plains. Snow chances increase Thursday afternoon and evening as a colder system moves in.
Across the Denver metro and Boulder County, today stays mostly sunny with gusts nearing 20 mph at times. Wednesday remains mild, but clouds build late. By Thursday afternoon, snow develops, becoming steadier by evening. Accumulations remain uncertain on the plains, but slick roads are possible during the evening commute. Higher elevations west of the metro could see more impactful snowfall.
Travel through the foothills, Palmer Divide, and mountain passes may become hazardous Thursday night into early Friday. Temperatures fall quickly behind the system, dipping below freezing on the plains by Friday morning. That rapid cool-down raises concerns for refreezing on untreated roads after earlier warmth.
By Friday, snow tapers and skies begin to clear, but colder air settles in. Weekend conditions turn dry and calmer, with sunshine returning and highs rebounding into the 40s. The pattern reflects classic Front Range Winter swings, moving fast from mild to wintry.
Enjoy the warmth today, but prepare now. Secure loose items, avoid spark-producing activities in dry areas, and plan extra travel time Thursday evening. More Weather Alerts are possible as snow timing sharpens. How quickly did temperatures rise where you are today?
Five Day Weather Outlook for Denver–Boulder, Colorado
- Today: Mostly sunny, windy at times, high near 60
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, mild, high near 59
- Thursday: Snow develops late, turning colder, high near 46
- Friday: Slight snow chance early, colder, high near 38
- Saturday: Sunny and dry, high near 48
