If you’ve stepped outside today and felt the sunshine warming your skin, you might be tempted to think winter is on its way out. But don’t be fooled—Denver’s notorious weather whiplash is about to remind us that winter is far from over.
As of this afternoon, temperatures are hovering around a comfortable 46°F (8°C) under mostly clear skies, with today’s high expected to hit 64°F (18°C). It’s the perfect day to take a walk, go for a hike, or enjoy some patio dining. But if you’re making weekend plans, consider this your warning: drastic changes are coming, and they’ll hit harder than you think.
Why Is Denver’s Weather Changing So Fast?
Denver’s location at the base of the Rocky Mountains is what makes its weather so unpredictable. Right now, we’re enjoying a warm spell thanks to a high-pressure system sitting over the region, bringing in mild air and keeping things sunny.
However, a cold front from Canada is on its way south, and once it hits, it’ll push the warm air out and replace it with freezing Arctic air. The transition will be fast, and by the weekend, we’ll be dealing with temperatures that feel more like the dead of winter than a sunny spring day.
Breaking Down the Forecast—What You Can Expect
- Today (Thursday, February 6): Sunny and warm with a high of 64°F (18°C). Enjoy it while you can because the warm spell won’t last much longer.
- Friday, February 7: The last warm day before the cold sets in. Temperatures will reach a high of 68°F (20°C) with some sunshine, making it a great day for outdoor activities.
- Saturday, February 8: The cold front arrives. The high will drop to 49°F (9°C), and you’ll notice more clouds and a chilly breeze.
- Sunday, February 9: Winter returns in full force. The high will only reach 38°F (4°C), and it will feel colder due to wind gusts.
- Monday, February 10: The deep freeze takes over. Highs will barely reach 36°F (2°C), and the overnight low will plummet to 12°F (-11°C).
- Tuesday, February 11: The coldest day of the week. The high will be just 23°F (-5°C), and the low will fall to a bitter 8°F (-14°C).
Why This Temperature Drop Is More Than Just an Inconvenience
A sudden drop in temperatures like this can have serious consequences, and it’s important to prepare now. Here’s why this change matters:
- Icy Roads and Black Ice: The rapid cooldown could create dangerous driving conditions, especially on bridges and overpasses, which freeze faster than regular roads. Even if it doesn’t snow, moisture from earlier in the week could freeze, creating slippery surfaces.
- Frozen Pipes: When temperatures drop quickly, exposed pipes are at risk of freezing and bursting. This can lead to costly repairs if you don’t take precautions.
- Health Risks: The sudden shift from warm to freezing can take a toll on your body, especially if you’re not dressed for the cold. Frostbite and hypothermia can set in faster than you think, particularly for outdoor workers, children, and the elderly.
- Power Outages: Extreme cold can strain power grids as heaters run at full blast. In some cases, this can lead to power outages, so it’s important to have backup supplies ready.
How to Prepare for the Upcoming Cold
- Dress in Layers: Start with light layers during the day, but be ready to add heavier layers as temperatures drop. A good rule of thumb is to have a windproof outer layer to block the cold air.
- Protect Your Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes in insulation, and consider leaving faucets dripping overnight to prevent freezing.
- Bring Pets Indoors: Don’t leave your furry friends outside when the cold hits. Make sure they have a warm place to stay, plenty of blankets, and access to food and water.
- Stock Up on Essentials: Keep extra blankets, batteries, flashlights, and food on hand in case of power outages. Charge your phone and any backup devices now.
- Keep an Eye on Vulnerable Neighbors: Elderly residents and those with mobility issues may need help preparing for the cold. Check in with them to make sure they have everything they need.
Will It Warm Up Anytime Soon?
The bad news is that once this cold front takes over, it’s sticking around for a while. Monday and Tuesday will be the coldest days of the stretch, with highs struggling to reach the 20s. Overnight lows will remain in the single digits, creating dangerous wind chills. By mid-next week, we might see a slight warm-up, but it won’t be anything like the warm weather we’re enjoying today.
Final Thoughts: Stay Ready, Denver
Denverites are no strangers to sudden weather changes, but this week’s shift from sunny and mild to freezing cold is a good reminder to never get too comfortable. Enjoy today’s warmth, but make sure you’re ready for what’s coming. Get your winter gear back out, protect your home, and keep an eye on the forecast as temperatures take a dramatic dive.
Stay warm, stay safe, and don’t let Denver’s wild weather catch you off guard
