After a stretch of scorching summer heat, Coloradans are finally getting some relief. A cooler and more unsettled weather pattern is moving into the state starting today and continuing through Friday, bringing increased chances of rain, thunderstorms, and noticeably cooler temperatures — particularly for areas east of the Continental Divide.
Cooler Temps and Rising Humidity
A shallow cold front pushed through the region early this morning, allowing low-level moisture to surge in from the east. Dewpoints have climbed into the 60s, especially along the I-25 corridor and the eastern plains. This influx of moisture has pushed precipitable water values to 120–140% of normal — enough to support efficient rainfall production and increase the risk of localized flash flooding.
High temperatures across the plains today are expected to top out in the low to mid 80s, offering welcome relief from the recent string of 90s and triple-digit readings. In the mountain valleys, highs will generally range from the upper 70s to low 80s. That trend of below-normal temperatures looks to continue through Friday.
Flash Flood Risk for the Palmer Divide
Today’s main weather focus is the Palmer Divide region, where heavy rain and isolated severe thunderstorms are possible this afternoon and evening. A Flood Watch has been issued for eastern Douglas, Elbert, and Lincoln counties through 9 PM MDT. These areas are in line for slow-moving storms capable of producing localized flash flooding, especially in terrain-favored zones.
While more stable conditions north of the Palmer Divide may limit storm strength in places like Denver, the ingredients for heavy rainfall still exist, including a ribbon of MLCAPE (instability) near 2000 J/kg and unusually deep warm cloud layers — both of which support efficient rain production.
Daily Storm Chances Through Friday
Widespread afternoon and evening thunderstorms are expected through Friday, driven by moist easterly upslope flow and lingering instability. While bulk shear (a measure of storm organization potential) remains low, the abundance of moisture means lightning, gusty winds, and locally heavy rainfall will be the primary threats.
Wednesday looks like a repeat of today, with another round of storms likely to develop in the mountains by midday and then spread east. The Weather Prediction Center (WPC) has placed much of eastern Colorado under a Slight Risk for excessive rainfall, signaling the potential for more localized flooding.
By Thursday and Friday, a weak trough and increasing shear may support stronger thunderstorms again — especially across northeast Colorado. There’s even potential for a few borderline severe storms if instability and wind dynamics align by Friday afternoon.
What About the Weekend?
Unfortunately for those enjoying the break from the heat, the cooldown won’t last forever. Models suggest the heat will rebuild over the weekend as the upper-level ridge shifts back over Colorado. Highs in the 90s are expected to return to the plains and the I-25 corridor by Saturday and Sunday, with a return to more isolated, weak thunderstorm chances.
In Summary:
- Relief is here! Cooler temperatures and daily thunderstorm chances through Friday.
- Flash Flood Watch in effect today for parts of the Palmer Divide (Douglas, Elbert, Lincoln counties).
- Heaviest rain today and tomorrow will favor southern and eastern Colorado.
- Drier and hotter weather likely returns this weekend.
Keep an eye on Skyview Weather forecasts and alerts, especially if you’re in flood-prone areas. And enjoy the brief break from the summer heat while it lasts!