Temperatures Soar 15 Degrees Above Average in Southern Colorado

Records could be shattered as the heat wave continues through the week

Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:03am

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Southern Colorado is experiencing an unprecedented heat wave, with temperatures on Tuesday rising about 15 degrees above average and nearing all-time record highs for the month of March. The warm spell is expected to continue through the rest of the week, with multiple days potentially breaking long-standing temperature records.

Why it matters

This early-season heat wave is highly unusual for the region and could have significant impacts, including increased strain on the power grid, heightened wildfire risk, and potential health concerns, especially for vulnerable populations. The records being approached were set decades ago, underscoring the severity of the current weather pattern.

The details

On Tuesday, Colorado Springs is forecast to reach a high of 71 degrees, just shy of the daily record of 74 set on St. Patrick's Day. Pueblo is expected to hit 76 degrees, and Canon City 75 degrees - both around 15 degrees above average for this time of year. The warm temperatures will be accompanied by breezy winds of 10-15 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph in some areas.

  • Tuesday's forecast high temperatures will be within a few degrees of the all-time March records.
  • Temperatures are expected to continue rising through the end of the week, with Thursday, Friday, and Saturday potentially breaking all-time March high temperature records.

The players

Colorado Springs

The state's second-largest city, located in central Colorado, is forecast to approach its all-time March high temperature record of 81 degrees set in 1971.

Pueblo

A city in southern Colorado known for its mild climate, Pueblo is expected to challenge its all-time March high of 86 degrees set in 1989.

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What’s next

The National Weather Service will be closely monitoring the situation and issuing updates on any potential record-breaking temperatures throughout the week.

The takeaway

This early-season heat wave is a stark reminder of the impacts of climate change, as long-standing temperature records are threatened to be shattered. Local officials and residents will need to remain vigilant and prepared for the potential challenges this extreme weather could bring.