Colorado begins the day under crisp, dry air as a warm December sun climbs over the Front Range. Foothill winds tug at trees and sweep light dust across open fields—an early sign of the elevated fire weather conditions expected across northeast and north-central Colorado today. Pavement dries quickly after dawn, and humidity dips fast as the air warms.
According to the National Weather Service, locally elevated fire weather conditions will persist through today across the lower foothills and adjacent plains. Breezy conditions strengthen over higher elevations, creating fast-drying fuels and increased ignition potential. Residents near Jefferson, Boulder, and Larimer foothill zones should avoid outdoor burning and secure loose holiday decorations that could shift in gusts.
Meteorologists note that the region sits firmly on the warm side of a major national weather split: arctic air plunges into the Upper Midwest while the West—and especially Colorado—remains unusually mild. Denver climbs to the upper 50s to low 60s today and into the low 60s Sunday, continuing a stretch that feels more like late fall than mid-December.
Models show a “winter tease” pattern developing for mid-next week as moisture edges back into northern mountains. Light precipitation chances return around Tuesday or Wednesday, though no snow or freezing concerns appear for the urban corridor at this time. Still, dry air can shift quickly this time of year; any stronger downslope winds may push fire weather conditions higher again before cooler air arrives.
Plan extra caution if hiking, decorating outdoors, or traveling through foothill corridors today. Winds may fluctuate rapidly through the afternoon.
Five-Day Outlook
Saturday: Sunny, high 62°.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 64°.
Monday: Sunny, high 65°.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 65°.
Wednesday: Breezy, high 65°; light mountain precipitation possible.
