This post breaks down Denver’s weekend weather forecast, summarizing the National Weather Service outlook and offering practical guidance for residents and visitors.
I’ll explain the timing and risks of showers and thunderstorms, where severe weather is most likely, and how conditions should evolve into next week.
What to expect this weekend in Denver
Denver is facing a classic spring-to-summer transition pattern: fast-moving systems that alternate between sun and storms.
The National Weather Service (NWS) calls for a 60% chance of rain today, with showers expected before noon and thunderstorms developing in the afternoon.
Based on three decades of watching Colorado weather, that combination typically yields scattered but potentially intense storms—especially during the afternoon heating peak.
Today: showers and afternoon thunderstorms
Expect wet, unsettled conditions through tonight.
The NWS specifically notes shower activity before noon, followed by thunderstorm development in the afternoon.
These storms are likely to produce heavy rain in short durations, and pockets of stronger convection could include lightning, gusty winds and large hail across lower-elevation neighborhoods and suburbs.
Severe storm risk and hazardous areas
The NWS has issued a hazardous weather outlook covering northeast and north central Colorado.
Forecasters are warning of possible severe storms this afternoon, with the main hazards being large hail and strong straight-line winds across lower elevations.
Higher terrain is not immune—thunderstorms are also expected in the mountains and will generally move eastward through the weekend.
Sometimes these storms produce localized heavy snow or graupel at the highest elevations earlier in the season.
How the pattern evolves: Sunday through midweek
After an active Saturday, storm chances should ease on Sunday with increased sunshine as we head into the new week.
By midweek, the atmosphere is expected to stabilize, delivering mostly clear skies and highs climbing into the 80s.
A brief return of isolated afternoon storms is possible on Tuesday before conditions settle.
Timing and confidence
Confidence is highest for general trends—a wet, stormy Saturday, a drier Sunday, and a warming midweek.
The exact placement of the strongest storms will hinge on small-scale features and daytime heating, so localized shifts are possible.
That’s why keeping an eye on updated NWS products and radar this afternoon is important.
Practical advice for Denver residents and visitors
With rapidly changing conditions, preparedness is the best strategy.
Below are focused recommendations drawn from my 30 years of field experience monitoring Colorado weather.
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Stay flexible with outdoor plans. Postpone or move activities to the morning when showers are more likely than severe storms.
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Have a plan to seek shelter. If severe thunderstorms develop, go indoors away from windows until the threat passes.
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Monitor real-time updates. Use the NWS, local radio, and smartphone weather alerts for the latest watches and warnings.
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Protect vehicles and property. Large hail can cause significant damage—if possible, park in a garage or under cover.
Keep weather apps handy and be ready to adjust plans at short notice.
If you have outdoor events planned, consider contingency locations or time shifts to earlier in the day when the threat is lower.
Here is the source article for this story: Denver Braces for Weekend Weather Whiplash: Sun, Showers, and Severe Storms on the Forecast