Denver, Colo. – The Front Range wakes to a restless sky — stars flicker behind fast-moving clouds as dry wind scours the foothills. It’s a deceptive calm before a volatile Monday, with fire danger and freezing cold sharing the same 24 hours across the Denver metro area and much of north-central Colorado.
The National Weather Service in Boulder has issued both a Red Flag Warning and a Freeze Warning, signaling a dramatic temperature drop after a day of gusty warmth. Winds will ramp up through late morning, with gusts of 45 to 55 mph possible along the I-25 corridor and foothills. Humidity levels may dip below 15%, making conditions favorable for rapid wildfire spread — particularly south and east of Denver toward Castle Rock and Limon.
By nightfall, the focus shifts sharply. Clear skies and calming winds will allow heat to escape quickly, sending temperatures tumbling into the upper 20s and low 30s by early Tuesday. The coldest readings are expected from Fort Collins to Longmont, with frost and freeze conditions likely as far south as Aurora and Castle Rock.
Residents should protect plants, pipes, and pets before sundown. Cover gardens or move potted plants indoors, and wrap outdoor plumbing to prevent burst lines. Farmers and growers should prepare for crop damage potential in exposed areas.
Looking ahead, sunshine and calm return by Tuesday with highs rebounding near 68°F, but another weak system could bring showers to the mountains by Thursday. For now, Colorado’s first true taste of fall-to-winter whiplash has arrived — a day of fire, followed by ice.
Five-Day Outlook for Denver, CO:
Mon: 82/33 – Windy, Red Flag & Freeze Warnings in effect.
Tue: 68/37 – Sunny, calmer.
Wed: 69/41 – Mild, partly cloudy.
Thu: 63/41 – Chance of showers.
Fri: 65/40 – Mostly sunny, seasonal.
