Denver, Colorado – Colorado is expected to experience a warmer and more active weather pattern between July 23 and July 27, with above-normal temperatures spreading across much of the state while increasing monsoonal moisture fuels daily rounds of afternoon and evening thunderstorms. The combination of summer heat and abundant moisture could bring localized heavy rainfall, frequent lightning, gusty winds and isolated flash flooding, especially near recent burn scars and mountainous terrain.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, in its 6-10 Day Outlook issued July 17, Colorado is favored to experience above-normal temperatures during the July 23-27 period. The state is also included in an area favoring above-normal precipitation, signaling an increased likelihood of more widespread showers and thunderstorms than is typical for late July.
In Denver, afternoon temperatures are expected to climb above seasonal averages before thunderstorms develop over the Front Range and drift eastward into the Interstate 25 corridor. Some storms may produce torrential rainfall, frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, small hail and wind gusts exceeding 40 mph. Brief flooding may develop in urban areas with poor drainage, while heavier rain over recent wildfire burn scars could increase the risk of debris flows.
Farther south, Colorado Springs is expected to experience a similar pattern, with warm afternoons giving way to scattered thunderstorms during the late afternoon and evening. Storms developing over the Rampart Range and Pikes Peak region may bring heavy downpours, localized flash flooding and hazardous lightning for hikers, campers and outdoor events. Travel along Interstate 25 and U.S. Highway 24 could become difficult during periods of heavy rain.
The warmer and wetter pattern is expected to extend statewide, including Fort Collins, Pueblo, Greeley, Grand Junction, Durango, Aspen, Vail and Alamosa. Mountain communities will likely see the greatest coverage of afternoon thunderstorms, while the eastern plains may experience stronger storms capable of producing gusty winds and locally heavy rainfall.
Although the Climate Prediction Center outlook does not pinpoint the exact timing or location of individual thunderstorms, confidence continues to increase that Colorado will remain in a warmer-than-normal and wetter-than-normal pattern through July 27. Residents and visitors should plan outdoor activities early in the day, move indoors immediately if thunder is heard, and monitor National Weather Service forecasts for updated flash flood watches, severe thunderstorm warnings and other weather alerts.
