High Fire Danger Ahead of Denver Showers

Warm, dry, and breezy conditions raise concerns before rain and snow arrive later this week.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:41am

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A dramatic, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and white, depicting a vast, mountainous scene with billowing storm clouds overhead, conveying the overwhelming power and sublime beauty of nature.A looming storm system promises both the threat of wildfires and the potential for heavy mountain snowfall in the Denver region.Denver Today

A warm, dry, and breezy start to the week in Denver will increase fire danger on Monday, with a red flag warning in place for the southern foothills, Palmer Divide, and near the Wyoming border. However, a weather disturbance is expected to move in on Monday night, bringing mountain snow showers followed by rain chances in the lower levels by Tuesday afternoon and evening.

Why it matters

Dry, windy conditions can quickly spread wildfires, posing a threat to public safety and property in the Denver metro area. The incoming weather system will provide some relief, but also potential travel difficulties in the mountains due to heavy snowfall.

The details

Monday's high temperatures in the 70s, low humidity, and increasing wind speeds throughout the day will create an elevated fire risk, prompting a red flag warning from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The disturbance arriving Monday night will first bring snow showers to areas above 10,000 feet, where 4-9 inches of accumulation is possible, before transitioning to rain showers in the lower elevations by Tuesday afternoon.

  • Monday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.: Red flag warning in effect for the southern foothills, Palmer Divide, and near the Wyoming border due to high fire danger.
  • Monday night: Mountain snow showers expected, with 4-9 inches of accumulation possible above 10,000 feet.
  • Tuesday afternoon and evening: Rain showers likely in the lower elevations of the Denver metro area.

The players

Denver

The city of Denver, Colorado, where the weather conditions and forecast are being reported.

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What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the potential for severe weather and fire danger throughout the week.

The takeaway

This weather pattern highlights the importance of fire prevention and preparedness in the Denver area, as well as the need to be cautious when traveling in the mountains during periods of heavy snowfall.