Denver is on the edge of a winter preview, as the first snow of the season is set to arrive on Wednesday morning, marking a dramatic shift from recent dry, warm conditions. This weather rollercoaster kicks off after today’s critical fire alerts, driven by warm, gusty winds that underscore just how sharply things are about to change.
Today’s Fire Alerts, Wednesday’s Snow
As of this afternoon, a potent storm system is stirring things up across Colorado’s western skies. Bands of moderate to heavy precipitation, some accompanied by lightning, have already entered the state, hinting at the instability in this storm. In the high country, rain will quickly shift to snow by sunset today, and it’s just the beginning. The Front Range will see rain turn to snow by early Wednesday, with light accumulations expected mainly on grassy areas in Denver. The foothills, however, could see more impactful snowfall, up to a few inches.
Cold Front Drops Temperatures and Sparks Alerts
As the cold front sweeps in, expect an overnight temperature nosedive. A Freeze Watch has been issued from Wednesday evening through Thursday morning, as temperatures dip into the mid-20s across the Front Range and adjacent plains. Highs will plunge from the low 70s today to a chilly 30s by Wednesday morning. Strong southwest gusts will flip to cool northerly breezes, bringing a much-needed cooldown but also a few challenges for commuters and early risers on Wednesday. By late afternoon, precipitation should taper off, leading to clearer skies for the rest of the week.
Halloween Preview
With the wintery weather set to clear out by midweek, Halloween revelers can look forward to comfortable, near-normal temperatures and dry skies. It’ll be ideal for trick-or-treating, but the chill in the air will likely linger as Denver residents enjoy a cool, festive evening.
What’s Next?
While this taste of winter may be brief, it signals a seasonal shift. Early models hint at a mix of drier and potentially cooler conditions through the weekend, making it an opportune time for Denverites to prepare for winter’s eventual arrival. The first snowfall may not be heavy, but it’s enough to remind everyone to be ready for winter’s reach.