Colorado greets the morning with dry air, rattling windows, and fast-moving clouds racing over the Front Range. Grass bends low. Loose items shift. Conditions feel tense, even before the strongest winds arrive.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver/Boulder, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect today for the Denver metro and surrounding plains. Westerly winds strengthen quickly through late morning and afternoon. Gusts reach 50 mph, with isolated peaks near 80 mph, especially along the urban corridor and foothills.
Relative humidity drops as low as 15–25 percent, creating critical fire weather conditions. Any spark could spread rapidly. Outdoor burning should be avoided, and residents are urged to secure loose objects early.
Travel impacts are likely. High-profile vehicles may struggle on I-25, I-70, and U.S. 36, especially during peak wind hours. Drivers should expect sudden crosswinds and reduced vehicle control by afternoon. Plan extra time if heading east or north.
Tonight brings gradual improvement. Winds weaken, though breezy pockets linger. Temperatures cool into the low 30s, helping stabilize conditions slightly.
By Thursday, calmer weather returns. Sunshine dominates, with highs near 50 degrees. Roads remain dry, and travel conditions improve significantly. Friday stays mild, but attention shifts back to the mountains.
Meteorologists are tracking snow returning to Colorado’s higher elevations late Friday into Saturday. Slick mountain roads are possible, especially for holiday travelers heading west. Lower elevations remain mostly dry for now.
Looking toward the Christmas travel window, the pattern stays active. Strong winds today mark the transition. Quieter weather follows briefly, then winter nudges back into the Rockies.
Five-Day Outlook (Denver, CO):
• Today: Windy, high near 70
• Thursday: Sunny, high near 51
• Friday: Partly sunny, high near 68
• Saturday: Slight chance showers, high near 65
• Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 59
