After a damp and dreary start to the week, we will be rewarded with some nicer conditions through the weekend.
So far May has been cooler than normal in the eastern half of Colorado but in the western half of Colorado, they have seen warmer than normal temperatures. That’s thanks to that Polar Vortex you heard so much of. It was just close enough to affect the Eastern Plains but not strong enough to get all the way to the San Juan mountains.
The Next 5 Days
The next 5 days will be categorized by normal temps and increasing rain chances for some. Highs are typically in the lower 70s for highs and lower 40s for lows.
Wednesday will be mainly sunny and nice out with temperatures trying to get to 80º. There’s the chance a mountain wave cloud sets up – those are stationary clouds that form downwind of mountain ranges. A cool front will move through Wednesday night bringing some clouds and maybe some rain with it but that will be more likely up towards Fort Collins.
Thursday through Saturday will be our best chance to see rain and storms. After Wednesday nights front, we’ll be watching another system in the Great Basin (Nevada/Utah) that will bring warmer and more moist air to us. That, plus the combination of added energy approaching will equate to widespread shower activity Thursday afternoon and evening with a few thunderstorms embedded.
Then on Friday, we will see another bout of energy swing in from the Pacific Northwest. With the added moisture on the ground, additional atmospheric energy and enough heat in the region, we will see the chance of some stronger thunderstorms for Friday afternoon. These could have large hail and damaging winds with them. Some of these storms will linger into Saturday morning before some gradual clearing takes place. We will hold onto rain chances through Saturday.
The Warm Up
The first 90-degree temperatures of the year could be felt next week on Monday and Tuesday. A ridge of high pressure which brings warmer and clearer conditions, will set up and strengthen quite a bit those days so be ready for some good ole’ Colorado heat to set in.
90s could be possible Monday and Tuesday. Our first 90-degree day happens on June 7 so if we hit 90º next week, we’ll be running a little ahead of schedule.
The CPC (Climate Prediction Center) agrees with warmer and drier conditions for next week. We need some monsoon moisture to help out with the drought that is impacting the state right now. If we don’t get some solid moisture, our fire season may been more active than normal.
~ Rain or Shine
I’m Andy Stein
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