Weather Story

Red Flag Warning Today

Winter Returns by Friday

Freeze Warning Friday Night

Critical fire weather conditions return to the area today. The strongest winds are expected to occur from South Park and the southern Front Range Foothills eastward across the Palmer Divide and adjacent plains south of I-76. Rapid wildfire spread is possible given through persisting drought and extremely dry fuels.

Much colder temperatures and some snow finally returns to the lower elevations for Friday. It doesn't look like a big storm, but it will be more winter-like with light snow accumulations for the lower elevations, and a few inches for the mountains and foothills. Gusty winds will also make it feel colder, so bundle up and prepare for a day of winter. Use caution if traveling as well, with snow covered roads at times in the higher foothills and mountains, but mainly wet roads for the I-25 Urban Corridor. Depending on snow intensity, there will be a chance of slushy/slick roads for the Palmer Divide Castle Rock - Monument Friday afternoon/evening.

A hard freeze will likely occur across all of northeast and north central Colorado Friday night. A Freeze Warning will be in effect for the Front Range Urban Corridor and northeast plains of Colorado due to the long duration of temperatures expected in the upper teens to mid 20s Friday night through Saturday morning. Be sure to drain those outdoor sprinkler systems if they've already been turned on for the season!