Residents of Colorado should prepare for a wet start to the holiday weekend as thunderstorms return on Friday and Saturday, bringing the threat of localized heavy rain and gusty winds. However, drier, more pleasant conditions are expected by Sunday and Monday, offering a welcome break for those celebrating Labor Day outdoors.
Thunderstorms Friday and Saturday
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Pueblo, scattered showers and thunderstorms will begin to develop late Friday afternoon and continue into Saturday evening. These storms will bring brief but heavy rain, gusty winds, and the possibility of localized flooding in some areas. By Saturday night, the storm activity is expected to taper off, making way for sunnier skies.
Thunderstorms will be most widespread on Friday and Saturday, affecting areas across the state. Colorado Springs and Pueblo can expect afternoon highs in the upper 70s to low 80s, with the greatest chance for rain on Saturday. Meanwhile, cities on the eastern Plains, such as Lamar and La Junta, will see temperatures in the mid-80s, with isolated storms expected. Higher elevations, including mountain towns like Leadville and Woodland Park, will remain cooler in the 60s and could experience on-and-off showers.
Travel and Event Considerations
For travelers, the wet weather on Friday and Saturday could lead to slick roads, especially along major highways like I-25 and Highway 50. If you’re heading out for the weekend, be prepared for wet and potentially hazardous driving conditions. Plan for delays or detours in areas with heavy rain or localized flooding.
On the bright side, Sunday and Monday offer much more favorable conditions for outdoor plans. The rain will have moved out, leaving behind dry skies and mild temperatures, ideal for any Labor Day events or gatherings.
Looking Ahead: Sunny Skies for Labor Day
By Sunday, Colorado will enjoy sunnier and warmer conditions, with highs in the 70s and 80s on the Plains and cooler temperatures in the 60s across the mountains. These more pleasant conditions will persist into Monday, making for an ideal Labor Day holiday. Whether you’re relaxing outdoors or attending events, you can expect mostly dry skies and mild weather, perfect for enjoying the long weekend.
While thunderstorms will dominate the weather on Friday and Saturday, the holiday weekend will end on a much brighter note with dry, sunny conditions arriving just in time for Labor Day. Be sure to keep an eye on the weather if you’re planning any travel or outdoor activities during the first part of the weekend, but look forward to pleasant conditions by Sunday.
