Colorado wakes to a calm, dry start, but winter conditions are lining up quickly just west of the Front Range. By the time many travelers pack cars for end-of-year trips, snowflakes and gusty winds may already be changing plans across the Denver metro.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver/Boulder, mild conditions early today give way to a developing storm late tonight into Sunday. Rain is expected to transition to snow overnight, with snow becoming likely by early Sunday morning. Temperatures fall sharply, setting the stage for slick roads and reduced visibility.
Snow totals in Denver could reach a few inches by Sunday afternoon, while foothill and mountain locations see higher accumulations. Gusty north winds, topping 20 mph at times, may cause blowing snow along exposed roadways. Travel along I-70, I-25, and U.S. 36 could become hazardous, especially during the Sunday morning travel window.
Behind the system, colder air settles in fast. Daytime highs struggle to climb out of the 30s Sunday, then dip into the low 40s Monday with clearing skies. Overnight lows fall into the teens, increasing the risk for refreezing on untreated roads and sidewalks.
For those heading out of town or returning from holiday trips, plan extra time Sunday and watch for changing road conditions. Even light snow can create problems when temperatures drop quickly. Keep winter gear, slow down, and check road updates before departing.
Looking toward New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day 2026, conditions improve. Skies turn mostly sunny with dry weather holding, though cold nights remain. Winter is clearly settling in for Denver as the year turns.
Traveling Sunday or early next week? Let us know what road conditions you’re seeing across the metro.
Five-Day Outlook for Denver, Colorado
Today: Mostly sunny and mild. High near 59.
Sunday: Snow likely early, then clearing. High near 31.
Monday: Sunny and cold. High near 43, low near 21.
Tuesday: Sunny and milder. High near 51, low near 26.
Wednesday (New Year’s Eve): Partly sunny. High near 50.
