Denver just experienced its wettest day in nearly five months, as a significant rainfall event over the weekend delivered much-needed moisture to the region. On Saturday alone, Denver International Airport (DIA) recorded 0.96 inches of rain, setting a new daily record and making it the wettest day since late October.
In total, from Friday night through Sunday morning, Denver’s Central Park observation site measured 1.17 inches of rain. To put that into perspective, this amount exceeds the total precipitation the city received between November 10 and March 28, which only amounted to 1.15 inches.
The rain was widespread across the Front Range and northern Colorado. Boulder received an impressive 2.34 inches, Louisville saw 2 inches, Westminster recorded 1.76 inches, Greeley measured 1.23 inches, and Fort Collins exceeded an inch.
Much-Needed Relief for Drought-Stricken Areas
The significant rainfall provided crucial relief to regions experiencing severe to extreme drought, particularly in Larimer and Weld counties. The precipitation will likely improve soil moisture levels and reduce short-term fire risks as the region transitions into spring.
We anticipate that this rainfall event could lead to noticeable improvements in Colorado’s drought conditions. The latest U.S. Drought Monitor update, scheduled for release on Thursday, is expected to show positive changes.
Looking Ahead: More Weather Changes on the Way
Denver’s active weather pattern is set to continue through the week with multiple storm systems on the horizon.
Tomorrow, widespread mountain snow will develop and continue through the night, with several inches expected in higher elevations. The urban corridor and eastern plains will see windy conditions and scattered showers. A cold front will push southward late in the morning, bringing a chance of rain showers, possibly mixing with snow by late afternoon.
By midweek, another system will bring a mix of rain and snow to the plains and foothills. While snow accumulation is uncertain, there is a small chance that Denver and the surrounding areas could see measurable snowfall, with the Palmer Divide potentially receiving a few inches. Strong easterly winds may enhance precipitation in some areas, increasing the chance of travel impacts.
Friday night into Saturday, a cold front will push through northeastern Colorado, bringing another round of widespread snowfall, possibly impacting Opening Day at Coors Field. The foothills and Palmer Divide could see several inches, while lighter snow amounts are expected along the I-25 corridor. Travel impacts are most likely Saturday morning, though the heaviest snowfall potential is trending lower than initially expected.
A Promising Start to the Wet Season
Denver’s wettest months typically fall between April and July, with May historically being the city’s rainiest month. We are hopeful that this early-season moisture sets the stage for a productive wet season ahead.
For now, Denver residents can appreciate the much-needed precipitation and hope that this marks the beginning of a wetter spring season.