Colorado — Frost clings to parked cars across the Front Range this morning as winter officially arrives, but the cold grip won’t last long. The sun climbs quickly, and with it comes a dramatic warm-up that reshapes the week ahead.
Early temperatures hover near 30 degrees around Denver, with calm winds and clear visibility. According to the National Weather Service in Denver, sunshine dominates today, pushing highs into the lower 60s by afternoon. Roads improve fast after a cold start, though shaded spots may stay slick briefly.
In the high country, snow showers continue across mountain passes. While accumulations remain light, blowing snow may still slow travel on routes above 9,000 feet, including stretches near Berthoud and Loveland passes. Drivers heading west should plan for winter driving conditions.
The story shifts quickly for the metro. Monday turns even warmer, with highs near 71 degrees under mostly sunny skies. Tuesday stays mild, topping out in the mid-60s. The air feels more like early fall than late December, a classic Colorado swing after the winter solstice.
This warmth sets up excellent conditions for Christmas travel along I-25, I-70 east of the foothills, and Denver International Airport. No precipitation is expected in the plains, and visibility remains strong. Travelers should still watch nighttime temperatures, which dip into the upper 30s and lower 40s, allowing isolated refreeze on bridges.
Christmas Day continues the mild trend. Breezy sunshine pushes highs near 69 degrees, keeping outdoor plans comfortable and travel disruptions unlikely. Snow chances remain confined to the mountains later in the week.
For now, winter arrives quietly in Denver, then steps aside. How dramatic does this warm-up feel where you are?
Five-Day Outlook for Denver, Colorado
- Today: Mostly sunny, high near 61
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 71
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, high near 65
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 68
- Christmas Day: Mostly sunny, breezy, high near 69
