Denver Weather Update: Early Fall Snow Returns to Colorado Mountains by Thursday
DENVER, COLORADO — A sharp cool-down late this week is expected to bring the season’s first widespread mix of rain and snow to Colorado’s mountain regions, while rain chances will spread east toward the Front Range and Denver metro area by Thursday. The National Weather Service in Denver/Boulder said that colder air arriving midweek will drop temperatures by as much as 15 to 20 degrees from Wednesday’s highs, signaling a swift transition toward true fall conditions.
Colder Air and Early Snow Arriving Midweek
Forecasters expect Tuesday and Wednesday to remain warm and mostly sunny, with highs climbing into the upper 70s and low 80s across the plains. By early Thursday, a strong cold front sweeping across the Rockies will push moisture upslope, changing rain to snow above 8,000 feet. Light snow accumulations are likely over high-elevation passes including Berthoud Pass and Rabbit Ears Pass, creating slick travel conditions during the early morning hours.
Rain showers could reach Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins by midday Thursday before tapering off in the evening as temperatures fall into the mid-40s.
Travelers and Residents Urged to Prepare
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is urging travelers to stay alert for changing road conditions and to check for real-time updates before crossing high terrain. Slick patches and slushy snow could briefly impact mountain highways, especially during the morning commute.
Residents across the Denver area are advised to dress in layers, bring pets indoors, and protect sensitive outdoor plants from the early-season chill expected to arrive Thursday morning.
Forecast Outlook Into the Weekend
The cold front will clear the region by late Thursday, bringing drier and sunnier weather by Friday. Highs are forecast to rebound into the mid-60s, offering a pleasant start to the weekend for the Denver metro area.
The extended outlook shows mostly mild weather returning, with daytime temperatures staying near seasonal averages through next week.
Five-Day Forecast for Denver, CO
Monday: 60°/48° – Mostly cloudy; scattered light showers.
Tuesday: 76°/54° – Mostly sunny and warmer.
Wednesday: 80°/56° – Sunny; unseasonably warm afternoon.
Thursday: 68°/44° – Rain and mountain snow; cooler and breezy.
Friday: 64°/42° – Mostly sunny and mild.
Stay updated on more weather alerts, seasonal forecasts, and community updates at NapervilleLocal.com, your trusted source for regional weather and local reports.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.