Key Takeaways
- A First Alert Weather Day has been issued for Wednesday due to powerful winds and dangerous fire conditions
- A high wind warning is in effect for the mountains, foothills, and I-25 corridor, with wind gusts reaching 60-90 mph
- A red flag warning is in effect for the Denver metro area, Palmer Divide, and urban corridor, with extremely dry air and strong winds increasing fire danger
- Unseasonably warm and dry conditions will persist on Wednesday, with high temperatures reaching the mid to upper 60s
- Travel conditions in the mountains are expected to deteriorate on Wednesday afternoon and overnight due to strong winds and snowfall
Introduction to Severe Weather Conditions
A First Alert Weather Day has been issued for Wednesday, as a strong jet stream, pressure gradient, and cold front are expected to dramatically change the mid-week weather pattern. The combination of low relative humidity, gusty winds, and unseasonably warm temperatures will create dangerous wildfire conditions from the foothills out across the Eastern Plains. This triple threat will increase the risk of wildfires spreading rapidly, making it essential for residents to be aware of the potential dangers and take necessary precautions.
Weather Warnings and Alerts
The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning for the mountains, foothills, and much of the I-25 corridor on Wednesday. Wind gusts could reach 60 to 90 mph, with the strongest winds expected near the base of the foothills. Additionally, a red flag warning is in effect for the Denver metro area, the Palmer Divide, and much of the urban corridor starting at 11 a.m. Wednesday. Extremely dry air combined with strong downslope winds could allow any fire that starts to spread rapidly, with wind gusts potentially reaching 80 mph in the Denver metro area. These warnings and alerts indicate a high level of concern for the potential of severe weather conditions and the importance of taking necessary precautions to stay safe.
Unseasonable Weather Conditions
Wednesday will stay unseasonably warm and dry, with high temperatures expected to climb into the mid to upper 60s. This is nearly 15 to 20 degrees above normal for mid-December, making it feel pleasant but also increasing the risk of fire danger. The warm and dry conditions will help set the stage for heightened fire danger, and residents should be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to prevent fires from starting. While the weather may feel pleasant, it is essential to prioritize fire safety and take steps to prevent wildfires from occurring.
Mountain Travel Conditions
Travel conditions in the mountains are expected to deteriorate on Wednesday afternoon and overnight. Strong winds combined with periods of snowfall could lead to blowing snow and slick roads, particularly over mountain passes. A Winter Weather Advisory has been posted for 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Wednesday, and some of the northern mountains may see 4 to 10 inches of snow along with 75 mph wind gusts. Residents planning to travel to the mountains should be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to stay safe, including checking road conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on their journey.
Decreasing Winds and Cooler Temperatures
Winds will gradually decrease late Wednesday night into Thursday, though breezy conditions may linger into Thursday morning on the plains. Cooler air will move in behind a cold front, bringing temperatures closer to seasonal averages on Thursday. This decrease in wind and temperature will help to reduce the risk of fire danger, but residents should still be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to prevent fires from starting.
Looking Ahead to Future Weather Conditions
Looking ahead, strong winds are expected to return on Friday, once again raising fire weather concerns across the Front Range and foothills. Conditions finally begin to calm down over the weekend, with lighter winds and a return of mountain snow showers by Saturday. Accumulations look lighter overall, but travel impacts are still possible at higher elevations. Residents should continue to monitor weather forecasts and take necessary precautions to stay safe, as the weather conditions can change rapidly and unpredictably. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, residents can help to prevent wildfires and stay safe during severe weather conditions.
