Denver Breaks Nearly 50-Year-Old Record for Most 60-Degree Days in One Winter

The city has seen temperatures over 70 degrees this winter, breaking multiple daily heat records.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Denver has officially broken a decades-old record for the most 60-degree days in a winter, with 35 days hitting 60 degrees or higher so far this season. This surpasses the previous record of 34 days above 60 degrees set in the winter of 1980-1981.

Why it matters

This record-breaking warm winter in Denver is indicative of the broader trend of climate change, with winters becoming increasingly milder in many parts of the country. The high number of 60-degree days raises concerns about the long-term impacts on the local environment and economy.

The details

Denver's warm winter has been driven by the La Niña weather pattern, which is causing above-average temperatures. However, the La Niña pattern is now transitioning to a more neutral state, which is expected to bring more snow chances to the area in the coming weeks.

  • On Monday, Denver broke the record for the most 60-degree days in one winter.
  • The previous record of 34 days above 60 degrees was set in the winter of 1980-1981.

The players

Greg Perez

FOX31's Pinpoint Weather Meteorologist, who said the warm temperatures are due to the La Niña weather pattern.

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What they’re saying

“These temperatures are because of La Niña, which is causing a warm winter. However, La Niña is transitioning, and Perez said it's becoming more of a neutral pattern, which is why Denver is seeing more snow chances.”

— Greg Perez, FOX31's Pinpoint Weather Meteorologist (KDVR)

What’s next

The Pinpoint Weather team is expecting temperatures to hit 60 degrees again next week, but not before potential snow chances on Friday.

The takeaway

This record-breaking warm winter in Denver is a stark reminder of the impacts of climate change, with winters becoming increasingly milder in many parts of the country. As the La Niña pattern transitions, it remains to be seen how the local environment and economy will adapt to these changing weather patterns.