Good morning, Denver! Get ready for a scorcher today. It’s shaping up to be one of the hottest April days on record, with temperatures soaring into the upper 80s. And it’s not just the heat we’re dealing with—strong winds and low humidity are making things even more dangerous, especially when it comes to fire risk. Whether you’re staying in or planning to enjoy the day, here’s everything you need to know to stay safe.
Record-Breaking Heat – It’s Going to Be a Hot One
-
High Temperature: Expect the mercury to climb to 88°F (31°C)—that’s breaking records for this time of year. It’s going to feel more like mid-summer than spring!
-
Low Temperature: 47°F (8°C), so it’ll start off cooler, but by midday, the heat will really hit.
-
Conditions: We’re looking at a mostly sunny day with a few clouds here and there. While it’s nice to see the sunshine, it also means the heat will be full-force.
-
Wind: Gusty west winds will be blowing at 10 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching up to 40 mph. These winds will make the heat feel even hotter and, unfortunately, add to the fire danger.
-
Humidity: A dangerously low 6%, which means the air is incredibly dry. That makes the risk of wildfires extremely high.
Red Flag Warning: Fire Danger is Serious Today
The Red Flag Warning is in effect for much of the Denver metro area from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM MDT today. What does that mean for you? It means the conditions are perfect for wildfires to spread quickly. The combination of high winds, extreme heat, and dry air creates a hazardous situation.
Here’s how you can help:
-
Avoid anything that could spark a fire—no grilling, no outdoor burning, and be careful with anything that could produce heat or sparks.
-
If you see any signs of smoke or fire, alert authorities immediately.
We need to stay vigilant today—fires can spread fast in these conditions, and every small action can make a difference.
What’s Coming Next? A Cooldown on the Way
If you’re hoping for a break from the heat, relief is coming soon. Here’s what the rest of the weekend and early week will bring:
-
Sunday, April 13: Things will cool down with a high of 73°F (23°C), but it’ll be windy again. There’s also a chance of a thunderstorm later in the afternoon, so keep an eye on the sky.
-
Monday, April 14: A much cooler day is ahead, with highs only reaching 59°F (15°C). The cooler temperatures will give us all a much-needed break.
-
Tuesday, April 15: Things will warm up again, reaching 75°F (24°C), but it’ll be much more manageable than today’s extreme heat.
So, hang in there—today might be intense, but the weather will be much more comfortable in the next few days.
How to Stay Safe in This Heat
If you plan on being outside today, it’s crucial to stay safe and protect yourself from the extreme conditions. Here’s how you can beat the heat:
-
Stay Inside During Peak Heat: The hottest part of the day will be from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. If you can, stay indoors during those hours.
-
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. It’s easy to get dehydrated in this heat, and you won’t feel it right away.
-
Wear Sunscreen: Don’t skip this! The sun will be strong, even in spring, so protect your skin by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
-
Avoid Fire Risks: With the Red Flag Warning, fire danger is high. If you’re outside, be extra cautious around dry grass or anything that could catch fire.
-
Dress Light: Light, loose clothing will help keep you cool, but don’t forget to layer up if you’re going out in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.
A Quick Look at the Week Ahead
-
Sunday, April 13: Temperatures will cool down to 73°F (23°C), and we may see some thunderstorms later on. It’ll be a bit windier, but much more pleasant than today.
-
Monday, April 14: A cooler day at 59°F (15°C), so perfect weather for a walk or enjoying a low-key outdoor activity.
-
Tuesday, April 15: Expect 75°F (24°C) with sunshine—a great day for getting outside and enjoying more mild spring weather.
