Colorado Weather Alert: Why You Shouldn’t Trust Thursday’s Sunny Start

Colorado, get ready—things are about to get a little wild. A Colorado Weather Alert has been issued for Thursday afternoon through the evening, and if you have plans outside, you might want to prepare for a shift in the forecast. Gusty winds and scattered thunderstorms are expected to roll across the I-70 corridor and beyond, so whether you’re running errands, traveling, or heading to an outdoor event, it’s important to stay informed.

While the morning might start off calm, things will change quickly. By midday, winds are expected to pick up, with gusts reaching 30 mph or more in some areas. If you’re driving on I-70 or through open plains and higher elevations, be prepared for blowing dust that could reduce visibility. High-profile vehicles, like trucks and RVs, could especially be affected by the strong winds.

As the afternoon progresses, scattered thunderstorms are likely to develop. Though they’re not expected to be severe, these storms can still be a nuisance. Brief downpours, sudden gusts of wind, and even small hail are all on the table. Even a quick storm can throw a wrench in your plans or make the roads slippery, so keep an eye on the weather if you’re out and about during the evening rush.

What This Colorado Weather Alert Means for You

This Colorado Weather Alert is about more than just gloomy skies—it’s a heads-up that things could get a bit chaotic. That outdoor furniture you left out? It could get blown across the yard. Heading into the mountains? What looks like a clear day could quickly turn into a cold, rainy mess.

And the unsettled weather won’t end after Thursday. It’s expected to stretch into the weekend, especially on Sunday, when the chances for more widespread showers and storms go up. If you had plans for the great outdoors, this could put a damper on your weekend.

Temperatures will stay cooler than usual for mid-May, hovering in the 60s and low 70s. While it’s not going to be a washout, it won’t exactly feel like perfect spring weather, either. So, if you were hoping for a sunny, warm weekend, you might want to reconsider those outdoor plans.

How to Prepare and Stay Safe

• Secure Outdoor Items: It’s time to bring in or tie down anything that could blow away—patio furniture, trash cans, garden tools, you name it. Strong winds could make short work of anything not anchored down.

• Plan Ahead: If you’re planning to head out Thursday afternoon, give yourself extra time for travel, and be ready to switch routes if conditions get worse. Winds and dust could create hazardous conditions, especially on highways.

• Stay Weather-Aware: Keep a weather app handy or tune into local forecasts for real-time updates on storms. Conditions can change fast, and you don’t want to get caught off guard.

• Have a Backup Plan: If you’re hosting an outdoor event like a BBQ, a soccer game, or a hike, make sure you’ve got an indoor alternative in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.

A Reminder That Colorado Weather Can Be Unpredictable

Spring in Colorado is always a bit of a rollercoaster, and this week’s forecast is the perfect reminder of just how quickly things can change. With a little preparation, you can keep your plans on track and your stress levels low. So, stay informed, stay flexible, and don’t forget that a sudden storm is just part of the charm of Colorado’s ever-changing weather!

FAQ About Colorado Weather

1. What’s going on with the Colorado Weather Alert for Thursday?

Basically, a Colorado Weather Alert has been issued for Thursday afternoon and evening. We’re expecting gusty winds—think up to 30 mph—and a few scattered thunderstorms. It’s not going to be a full-on storm, but the winds and rain could still mess with your travel plans or outdoor activities, so it’s definitely worth checking the weather throughout the day.

2. How’s the weather going to affect travel along I-70?

If you’re hitting the road along I-70, especially in the higher areas, be ready for some gusty winds and maybe a bit of blowing dust. The winds could make it tricky for big vehicles like trucks and RVs, and the dust might make it harder to see. Just keep your eyes on the road and consider giving yourself a little extra time to get to your destination.

3. Are these thunderstorms going to be a big deal on Thursday?

Not really—these storms aren’t expected to be severe, but they could still be a pain. Expect short bursts of rain, some gusty winds, and maybe a little hail here and there. They’ll be quick, but even a quick storm can make the roads slick or mess with your outdoor plans. So, just keep an eye on the weather to stay ahead of it!

4. Will the bad weather stick around through the weekend?

Yep, unfortunately, it’s not just a Thursday thing. The weather’s going to stay a little unsettled through the weekend. Sunday’s looking especially stormy, with more rain and possible thunderstorms. So, if you’re planning on any outdoor activities, you might want to have an indoor backup just in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.

5. What should I do to get ready for Thursday’s weather?

• Tie down or bring in outdoor stuff: If you’ve got anything light like furniture or garden tools outside, it’s best to secure them before the winds kick in.

• Give yourself extra time to travel: With the wind and dust, it could take a little longer to get where you’re going, so plan ahead.

• Keep checking the forecast: The weather can change quickly, so make sure to stay updated with a weather app or local news.

• Have a Plan B for outdoor plans: If you’re doing something outdoors—like a BBQ or a hike—make sure you’ve got an indoor option ready in case the weather turns.