65 MPH Winds and Thunderstorms Are Sweeping Through Colorado—Here’s What You Need to Know

Hey, Colorado—get ready for some wild weather! A Colorado Wind Alert is in effect, and things are about to get pretty rough. Starting this afternoon, we’re looking at some really strong winds and the chance of thunderstorms rolling across the state, with gusts that could reach up to 65 mph. If you have any plans today, whether it’s running errands, hitting the road, or being outside, you’ll want to keep an eye on the weather. These conditions could catch you off guard.

By midday, the winds are going to start picking up. So, if you’re on the road, especially along I-70 or in the plains, the gusts are going to make driving a challenge. Those in trucks or RVs—be extra careful! The winds are going to be strong enough to make driving difficult, so be sure to adjust your plans if needed.

What You Can Expect:

• Strong Winds: Expect gusts up to 65 mph—yep, that’s pretty strong! These winds are going to make driving tricky and could blow debris into the road. Outdoor events are going to feel the effects too, so if you were planning something outside, now’s the time to make sure everything is tied down. Loose items might get blown away, so take a moment to secure them.

• Thunderstorms: Along with the wind, we’re also expecting thunderstorms to pop up later today. They won’t be anything too extreme, but they could bring heavy rain, small hail, and gusty winds. These storms won’t last long, but they’re still strong enough to disrupt your plans and make roads slippery, so keep an eye on the skies.

• When Will It Be the Worst? The most intense weather is likely to hit between 3 PM and 9 PM. If you have outdoor plans during those hours, it’s a good idea to stay updated on the forecast and have a backup plan in case things get dicey.

How This Affects You:

• Travel: If you’re planning to drive, keep in mind that blowing dust and debris will make it harder to see, especially on open roads. The strong winds are going to make driving even tougher for trucks, RVs, and taller vehicles. Allow yourself extra time to get to your destination, and be prepared for potential delays.

• Outdoor Plans: For anyone hoping to spend time outside, the weather could throw a wrench in those plans. Winds of up to 65 mph can damage outdoor furniture, garden tools, and anything that’s not secured. If you’re outside, make sure you’re ready to head indoors if the weather turns quickly.

• Thunderstorms and Hail: While these storms won’t be severe, they could still bring heavy rain and small hail. The rain will make the roads slick and might affect visibility, so if you’re out driving or walking, be cautious. If you’re hosting an outdoor event, it’s a good idea to have an indoor backup plan just in case.

How to Prepare:

• Secure Your Stuff: Take a quick walk around and bring in anything that could get blown away by the winds—patio furniture, trash cans, or even your potted plants. It’s a small step that’ll save you from having to chase them down later.

• Drive Safely: Keep your speed under control, especially if the visibility starts to drop due to dust. If you’re in a truck, RV, or any high-profile vehicle, be extra careful as those types of vehicles are more likely to be affected by strong winds.

• Stay Updated: The weather can change fast, so it’s a good idea to keep your weather app handy and check in for live updates. Knowing when the weather is about to shift will help you adjust your plans and stay safe.

FAQ About Colorado Weather

1. What exactly is a Colorado Wind Alert, and why do I need to worry?

A Colorado Wind Alert is basically a warning that the winds are going to be strong enough to cause problems. It’s a signal that gusts will hit 60 mph or higher, which can make driving tough, blow things around outdoors, and just make for an all-around unpleasant day. It’s a heads-up to make sure you’re prepared for those conditions—like tying down outdoor stuff or being cautious on the roads.

2. How bad will the winds get today, and where will they be the worst?

Expect winds that could gust up to 65 mph! They’re going to be strongest across the plains and along I-70, especially in open areas where there’s nothing to block the gusts. If you’re driving or out and about, these winds can make it hard to see, and they’ll affect taller vehicles like trucks and RVs more. It’s a good day to stay alert, especially if you’re traveling.

3. Will the thunderstorms be a big deal?

The thunderstorms today won’t be anything too crazy, but they could still cause some trouble. Expect some heavy rain, small hail, and gusty winds. The storms won’t last long, but they might be enough to mess with your outdoor plans or make the roads slippery. If you’re out and about, just be ready for a little wet and wild weather.

4. What can I do to make sure I’m ready for all this wind and rain?

Here’s what to do to stay safe:

• Secure outdoor stuff like patio furniture, trash cans, and garden tools that could get blown away. You don’t want to be chasing them down later.

• Drive carefully. If you’re out on the roads, especially in a big vehicle, the winds could make things tough. Slow down, and be mindful of blowing dust and debris.

• Stay on top of the weather. Make sure you’re checking your weather app or tuning in to news updates. Things can change fast, so you’ll want to be prepared for whatever comes next.

5. When will things be the worst today?

The worst of the weather is expected to hit between 3 PM and 9 PM. If you have plans during that time, keep an eye on the weather and be ready to adjust if the winds and rain pick up. Better to be prepared than caught off guard!