Colorado – Warm sunshine spilled across the Front Range early this morning, casting long shadows over dry ground that feels more like October than late December. The air is mild, almost springlike, but the calm hides growing concerns as winter patterns line up to change.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver, temperatures soar into the upper 60s and low 70s today across the metro area. That warmth, combined with low humidity and gusty southwest winds, creates elevated fire weather conditions along the southern foothills and nearby plains. Outdoor burning is discouraged, and any spark could spread quickly this afternoon.
Travel remains smooth today along I-25, I-70, and E-470, though drivers may notice gusty crosswinds during the afternoon. Conditions stay quiet tonight, with temperatures dropping into the upper 30s and low 40s under partly cloudy skies.
Tuesday stays mild but slightly cooler. Highs reach the mid to upper 60s with continued dry conditions. The bigger shift arrives by Wednesday, bringing the Christmas Eve weather tease. Clouds increase, and while Denver stays dry, snow chances rise in the mountains and foothills. Light snow may brush parts of the Front Range later in the week, especially west of the city.
Forecasters say this warm-and-dry pattern gives way to a more typical winter setup heading into Christmas. While significant snow is not guaranteed for Denver, travelers heading into higher elevations should prepare for winter driving conditions by Wednesday night and Christmas Day.
For now, enjoy the warmth but stay alert. Secure loose items, avoid fire hazards, and plan mountain travel carefully as conditions evolve. Winter has been quiet, but it may not stay that way long.
Traveling through Colorado this week? Let us know what conditions you’re seeing where you are.
Five Day Outlook for Denver, Colorado
Monday: Mostly sunny and warm, high near 73
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, slightly cooler, high near 67
Wednesday: Partly cloudy, mild, high near 68
Christmas Day: Mostly sunny, cooler, high near 57
Friday: Partly sunny and breezy, high near 52
