Denver, Colorado – Strong thunderstorms are expected to ignite over Colorado’s northern foothills this afternoon before sweeping eastward across the plains, with damaging winds and large hail posing the biggest threats for communities from Denver to Akron.
According to the National Weather Service in Boulder, storms will begin forming early this afternoon and intensify into the evening. Affected areas include Boulder, Fort Collins, Greeley, and into northeastern Colorado, where a Slight Risk level has been issued. Gusty winds and hail larger than quarters are possible, especially north and east of the metro area.
Localized flash flooding is also a concern, particularly in low-lying and urban areas with poor drainage. The NWS urges residents to stay indoors during storms and avoid travel on open highways like I-76 and U.S. 36 if hail or flooding is reported.
Crews from CDOT are monitoring conditions closely. This system mirrors late-July patterns seen in 2022, with rapid storm development and wind gusts exceeding 50 mph in some locations.
Severe weather threats will taper after sunset, but additional alerts may follow if storm cells redevelop overnight.
