Historic Heat Wave Threatens Denver Record Highs

Temperatures could reach the 80s and 90s across the West next week.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 1:38am

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A powerful heat wave is forecast to develop across the western U.S. next week, with Denver potentially seeing four consecutive days of record-breaking warmth from Thursday through Sunday. Temperatures in Denver could climb into the mid-80s, nearly 30 degrees above average for mid-March.

Why it matters

This early-season heat wave raises concerns about increased fire weather risk in Colorado, especially when combined with dry air and gusty winds. Record-breaking heat this early in spring is highly unusual and could have significant impacts on the region.

The details

The core of the heat is expected to arrive in Denver on Wednesday, March 18, and last through Monday, March 23. Forecast highs are predicted to climb from the lower 80s on Wednesday to the mid-80s from Thursday through Sunday. This would shatter several daily record highs in Denver, which typically sees average mid-March highs in the mid-50s.

  • The heat wave is forecast to develop across the western U.S. next week.
  • Temperatures in Denver are expected to peak from Thursday, March 19 through Sunday, March 22.
  • Average highs for mid-March in Denver are typically in the mid-50s.

The players

Denver

The city in Colorado that is expected to see record-breaking heat next week.

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What’s next

Meteorologists will continue to monitor the development and progression of this historic heat wave across the region.

The takeaway

This early-season heat wave is highly unusual for Denver and the western U.S., raising concerns about increased fire weather risk and the potential for significant impacts on the region.