Colorado opens the morning under calm skies, but change is already lining up. Crisp air, bright sun, and warming afternoons will give way to colder nights and a late-week shift toward winter travel concerns.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver/Boulder, Christmas Day brings mild December warmth. Highs climb near 71 degrees, with light southwest winds and clearing skies. Thursday stays quiet and cooler at night, with lows dipping toward 39 degrees, a reminder that winter still holds ground after sunset.
By Friday, conditions turn breezier. Gusts may reach 20 to 25 mph, especially along the Front Range. Those winds elevate fire weather concerns in foothill areas, while urban corridors stay dry and mild. Drivers should expect stronger crosswinds on east-west roads by afternoon.
Attention then shifts to post-Christmas travel on Saturday. Temperatures fall back into the mid-50s, and clouds increase late. Latest models show a slight chance of rain changing to snow Saturday evening, with colder air settling in quickly. While accumulation looks limited for Denver proper, even light flakes can trigger slick spots after dark.
Saturday night lows drop near 24 degrees, raising the risk of flash freezing where daytime moisture lingers. Bridges, ramps, and shaded streets could turn icy fast. Travelers returning home late should slow down and watch pavement shine.
Beyond Denver, active winter systems continue hammering the Sierra Nevada and Northeast. Those disruptions may ripple into national travel, especially for connecting flights.
Plan ahead: Build extra drive time Saturday night. Keep warm layers ready. Check road conditions before leaving.
📅 Five-Day Outlook — Denver, CO
- Christmas Day: Mostly sunny, high 71
- Thursday: Mostly clear, low 39
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 65, gusty winds
- Saturday: Partly sunny, high 56
- Saturday Night: Slight rain/snow chance, low 24
