Denver Braces for Dramatic Weather Shift, Possible Snow This Weekend

Temperatures to plummet from 70s to snow chances by Friday night, with significant moisture and accumulation expected.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:25pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a snow-covered mountain range under a heavy, overcast sky, with a small, isolated structure or vehicle barely visible in the foreground, dwarfed by the overwhelming scale of the natural world.As a late-season storm system approaches Colorado, the dramatic shift in weather conditions underscores the region's unpredictable climate and the need for residents to stay prepared.Denver Today

Denver is set to experience a dramatic weather swing this week, with temperatures dropping from the mid-to-upper 70s on Monday to a chance of snow by Friday night and Saturday morning. The 9NEWS Weather Impact Team is tracking a system that could bring significant moisture and possible snow accumulation to the area, even though it has been warm and dry recently.

Why it matters

This sudden weather change could impact Denver residents and travelers, as the region has not seen snow since mid-March, which would be the second earliest final snow of the season. The potential for snow accumulation could disrupt plans and require homeowners to reconsider activating their irrigation systems.

The details

The weather shift will begin on Tuesday, with cooler temperatures, increasing cloud cover, and a chance of rain showers. Colorado mountain travelers should exercise caution as several inches of snow are expected at pass level, making roads slick. By Friday, another, likely colder, system is expected to arrive, bringing a better chance for significant moisture on the Front Range. There is a chance for snow on Friday, with Friday night and Saturday morning appearing to be the window of greatest concern. Early modeling simulations are showing a chance for heavy snow in Denver by late Friday afternoon.

  • On Monday, temperatures will be in the mid-to-upper 70s, about 15 degrees above average.
  • On Tuesday, cooler temperatures and rising cloud cover are expected, with rain showers possible Tuesday night.
  • By Tuesday morning, some Colorado mountain passes could get slick with 3-10 inches of snow possible by Wednesday morning.
  • On Friday, another, likely colder, system is expected to arrive, bringing a better chance for significant moisture on the Front Range.
  • Friday night and Saturday morning appear to be the window of greatest concern for snow accumulation in Denver.

The players

Chris Bianchi

A 9NEWS Weather Impact Team meteorologist who is tracking the dramatic weather shift in Colorado.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“There is a chance for snow on Friday. I don't think we're done with snow in Denver yet.”

— Chris Bianchi, 9NEWS Weather Impact Team meteorologist

“Even though it's been so warm and so dry, we've probably got at least one more snow left in us, if not maybe two or three more.”

— Chris Bianchi, 9NEWS Weather Impact Team meteorologist

“I hope you haven't gotten those sprinklers going. We're looking at at least some slushy snow on the way for Friday night and Saturday morning.”

— Chris Bianchi, 9NEWS Weather Impact Team meteorologist

What’s next

Residents and travelers should monitor the weather forecasts closely as the potential for snow accumulation could disrupt plans and require adjustments to preparations, such as delaying the activation of irrigation systems.

The takeaway

This sudden weather shift in Denver highlights the unpredictable nature of Colorado's climate, even in the spring months. The potential for late-season snow serves as a reminder that residents should remain vigilant and prepared for unexpected weather changes throughout the year.