Colorado residents are preparing for a scorching weekend as a powerful heat wave settles over the state, with forecasters warning that temperatures could reach 100 degrees and threaten to break long standing daily heat records.
Colorado has issued First Alert Weather Days for Saturday and Sunday as a strong area of high pressure builds over the region, bringing dangerously hot conditions to the Front Range and the eastern plains. A Heat Advisory will be in effect both days from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. across the I-25 Corridor, including the Denver metro area.
How hot will it get
The extreme heat begins ramping up Friday, with highs expected in the mid to upper 90s. Thunderstorm activity will largely stay confined to the mountains Friday afternoon and evening, though the Denver metro area has a slim chance of catching an evening shower.
The real heat arrives this weekend. Saturday’s forecast high of 100 degrees could surpass the daily record of 99 degrees, while Sunday’s expected high sits right at the existing record of 100 degrees. The dangerous stretch isn’t expected to end quickly, either, as Monday’s forecast high of 98 degrees would also tie the record for that date.
Relief on the horizon
Despite the intense heat, there is a silver lining on the way. Monsoon moisture is expected to gradually increase over the weekend, setting the stage for a return of more consistent storm chances. Sunday afternoon, thunderstorms are expected to develop over the mountains, with a few potentially pushing onto the plains…