Colorado Weather Alert: Major Storms Set to Wreck Memorial Day Weekend Plans

Colorado Weather Alert: Just as families prepare for barbecues, hikes, and road trips this Memorial Day weekend, Mother Nature has different plans for much of the state. The National Weather Service has issued multiple warnings ahead of a potent storm system expected to roll through Colorado, especially impacting the I-25 corridor from Saturday afternoon through Monday.

Strong thunderstorms, gusty winds, and even hail are all in the forecast. Saturday will kick things off with partly sunny skies turning stormy by afternoon. Wind gusts could hit up to 45 mph along the I-25 stretch—a major artery for holiday traffic. And that’s just the beginning.

By Sunday, the weather will take a noticeable turn for the worse. Temperatures will drop, and cloud cover will thicken. Forecasters are calling for steady rain and thunderstorms, some of which could bring large hail and dangerous lightning, particularly on the eastern plains. High wind warnings are also in effect for Colorado’s mountainous regions, with gusts reaching as high as 80 mph in exposed areas.

Colorado Weather Alert: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

If you’re planning to travel, camp, or host a backyard gathering this weekend, it’s crucial to pay attention to these alerts. Colorado Weather Alert warnings aren’t issued lightly—conditions could change rapidly, especially in the mountains and along highways like I-25. Travel could be delayed, and outdoor plans may need to be scrapped or moved indoors.

On Memorial Day itself, Monday’s forecast brings a lingering 40% chance of showers, especially near the Front Range. High temperatures will hover in the upper 60s, bringing cooler-than-usual weather to cap off the weekend.

Be Prepared—Not Caught Off Guard

• Have a backup plan for any outdoor activities.

• Keep an eye on the radar and local forecasts.

• If you’re traveling, expect possible road hazards and pack accordingly.

• Consider rescheduling or moving events indoors if strong storms are expected in your area.

Memorial Day weekend should be a time to relax and enjoy Colorado’s beauty—but this year, it also calls for a little extra caution. Stay weather-aware, and you’ll still be able to make the most of the holiday weekend.

FAQ About Colorado Weather Alert

1. Which parts of Colorado will feel the brunt of this weekend’s weather?

The worst of it is expected along the I-25 corridor—so if you’re in or around Denver, Colorado Springs, or Pueblo, you’ll definitely want to keep an eye on the sky. The nearby mountains and the eastern plains are also in for some serious weather, with wind, storms, and even hail in the mix.

2. What kind of weather are we really talking about here?

It’s shaping up to be a messy weekend. Starting Saturday afternoon, you can expect strong winds—some gusting up to 45 mph—plus heavy rain, lightning, and possibly large hail. Sunday looks especially stormy, and even on Memorial Day Monday, we’re not totally in the clear. Showers and cooler temps are still on the table.

3. I’ve got travel and outdoor plans—should I cancel everything?

Not necessarily, but you’ll want to stay flexible. If you’re driving, especially along I-25, give yourself extra time and watch for sudden weather changes. Got a cookout or hike planned? Have a backup indoor location in mind, and maybe skip the mountain trails this time around—wind and storms can make those areas especially risky.

4. Will things clear up by Monday, or is the whole weekend a washout?

Monday does bring some improvement, but it’s not exactly beach weather. There’s still a decent chance of scattered showers, especially near the Front Range, and temps will stay on the cool side. It might not be a total washout, but don’t expect picture-perfect sunshine either.

5. Where can I stay updated so I don’t get caught off guard?

The best move is to check the National Weather Service site or a reliable local news outlet like CBS Colorado or KOAA. Weather apps like AccuWeather or The Weather Channel are great too. And if your county offers emergency alerts by text, it’s worth signing up—you’ll get real-time updates straight to your phone.