Southern Colorado is set to experience a hot and dry Fourth of July weekend, with triple-digit temperatures expected across the plains and breezy winds raising fire danger concerns as the sun sets on Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Pueblo, the holiday weekend will be dominated by dry and mostly fair conditions, although there could be isolated late-day showers or thunderstorms. Temperatures are forecasted to soar near or above 95°F in cities such as La Junta, Lamar, Pueblo, and Springfield on both July 4 and 5. Lamar is expected to be one of the hottest areas, potentially hitting 97°F on Friday.
Thursday evening will bring gusty winds up to 21 mph in areas like Alamosa and Del Norte, particularly around sunset. These winds could cause brief visibility issues for drivers and elevate concerns about wildfire risks. Although rain chances are low, there is a small chance (10-15%) of scattered showers after 6 p.m. for areas including Eads, Lamar, Springfield, and Leadville.
Cooler mountain towns, like Leadville and Woodland Park, will experience milder temperatures, peaking in the 60s and 70s, providing a break from the heat for those looking to escape the hot weather.
By Sunday, conditions should ease slightly, with temperatures dropping to around 89°F, but dry, hot weather will remain a dominant feature of the weekend. More updates are expected as summer storms develop in the afternoons.
5-Day Forecast Snapshot for Pueblo Region
Wednesday: Sunny, high of 91°F
Thursday (July 4): Hot, breezy evening, high of 96°F, 5-10% chance of evening storms
Friday: Mostly sunny, high of 97°F, isolated evening storms
Saturday: Slight cooling, high of 93°F, windy at sunset
Sunday: High of 89°F, drier and calmer
