Denver, Colorado – A noticeable break from active winter weather is expected across Colorado beginning Thursday, with temperatures trending above normal while precipitation chances fall below average through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, Colorado is forecast to experience above-normal temperatures from Thursday through Monday, paired with below-normal precipitation. This pattern will limit storm activity statewide and bring a milder feel to what is typically one of the colder stretches of winter.
Along the Front Range, including Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo, residents can expect quieter weather with fewer systems moving through. Daytime highs are expected to run warmer than typical for mid-January, while overnight lows remain relatively moderate, reducing the frequency of hard freezes in urban areas. Dry air and sunshine may allow for noticeable warming during the afternoon hours.
In the mountains, including Summit County, Eagle County, Vail, Aspen, and Steamboat Springs, precipitation chances are expected to be limited. While temperatures will remain cold enough to maintain winter conditions at elevation, reduced storm activity may slow snowpack accumulation and lead to fewer travel disruptions over mountain passes compared to a typical January pattern.
Western Colorado, including Grand Junction, Montrose, and Glenwood Springs, is also expected to see above-average temperatures with dry conditions dominating. Southern Colorado, including Alamosa and Durango, will trend milder and drier as well, with limited opportunities for precipitation.
Major travel corridors such as Interstate 25, Interstate 70, U.S. Highway 50, and U.S. Highway 160 are expected to see generally favorable conditions during this period, with fewer weather-related slowdowns.
While the warmer and drier pattern may be welcome for travel and outdoor plans, water managers and ski operations will continue monitoring snowpack levels if this trend persists. For now, the mild and dry setup is expected to hold into early next week, with any return to more active weather likely beyond this timeframe.
