The weather forecast for Denver this week indicates a return to familiar summer patterns, with temperatures expected to reach the 80s and afternoon thunderstorms on the horizon.
On Wednesday, residents may face localized flash flooding, particularly along the Front Range.
These climatic conditions signal the arrival of the summer monsoon, which is now delivering rain to the Rocky Mountains on schedule.
According to Bruno Rodriguez, a forecaster at the local National Weather Service office, the area is experiencing the early stages of the monsoon season.
“We’re still very much on the front end of it,” Rodriguez remarked.
He noted that there have been almost daily showers and thunderstorms in the mountains during the afternoons, which is typical for this time of year.
The North American monsoon represents a seasonal change in wind patterns, shifting from predominantly westerly winds to those from the south or southeast.
This shift draws moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and sometimes from the Pacific, generally peaking in late July and August.
In Colorado, these winds bring increased summer showers and thunderstorms, elevating the risk of flash floods.
While the effects of the monsoon are most pronounced in southwestern Colorado, the Front Range also sees its impacts.
After experiencing mostly dry conditions in early July, Denver received some rainfall last week, with predictions of more precipitation in the near future, as reported by WeatherSpark data.
Currently, precipitation levels in the Denver metro area are on par with seasonal averages, with Denver International Airport recording around 8.9 inches year-to-date—a figure consistent with historical norms according to Global Warming Cities.
However, the absence of summer rains can lead to severe consequences, as experienced in 2020 when the region faced a drought that resulted in detrimental wildfires, according to 9News.
Despite this season’s typical rainfall, drought conditions persist on Colorado’s Western Slope.
Rodriguez explained that while increased humidity and rainfall have the potential to mitigate wildfire risks, stronger monsoon activity is necessary for these benefits to be realized.
Nonetheless, the heightened precipitation also introduces a range of challenges.
The risk of wildfires can exacerbate the already heightened threat of flash flooding.
Rodriguez highlighted that areas affected by recent burn scars struggle to absorb rainfall, making them more susceptible to flooding.
Moreover, thunderstorms carry the risk of lightning, which can strike distances ranging from 10 to over 60 miles from the storm’s center.
For outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers and campers, it’s vital to stay safe during the monsoon season.
Caution is advised near canyons, streams, or rivers, where muddy waters and rising levels pose dangers.
Always carry a device capable of alerting you to changing weather conditions, whether that be a small radio, phone, or smartwatch.
It’s essential to refrain from entering flooded areas until officials have declared them safe.
If thunder is audible, you are within striking distance of lightning; immediate shelter is paramount.
Should shelter not be available, spread apart from others in your group, crouch down, and cover your ears to minimize the risk of injury.
Expect temperatures to remain in the high 80s with continued chances of thunderstorms and showers throughout the week.
Localized flash flood alerts may be issued on Wednesday as the monsoon activity continues.
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