Wind and Rain: Southern Colorado Temps to Drop 15 Degrees Saturday

Gusts of 40 to 45 mph will hit southern Colorado as a cold front crosses the state early Saturday. This system is forecast to lower temperatures by 10 to 15 degrees, pushing highs below average levels for the region.

The weather pattern begins with scattered showers across the Pikes Peak Region, Pueblo County, and the eastern plains on Thursday evening. Overnight lows are expected to settle in the 40s and 50s across most of the area. Farther west, conditions remain hazardous. The San Juan Mountains and the southwestern corner of the state are experiencing heavy rainfall that continues to pose risks for flooding and mudslides. Flood watches, severe thunderstorm watches, and several flood warnings are currently in effect for that portion of Colorado.

Friday will bring warmer conditions before the front arrives. Colorado Springs is expected to reach a high of 73 after a low of 51. Winds will increase as the front moves in ahead of the weekend. Pueblo is forecast to hit 81 with on and off showers throughout the day and into the evening. Canon City will see a high of 75, with a temporary pause in moisture by Friday afternoon. That break in rain is expected to be short, as the front and new moisture arrive Friday night and carry into the weekend.

Woodland Park will stay above seasonal averages on Friday with a high of 56 and intermittent showers. The weekend will turn cooler, bringing cold rain and possibly some snow. Plains areas are set to reach 83 on Friday. Depending on how conditions develop, these areas could pick up decent rainfall over the weekend as temperatures fall and strong winds set in. Mountain regions will see a high of 59, with heavy rain and flood risk persisting into the weekend. Snow levels are likely to drop once the cold front passes.

Tropical moisture is shifting east, delivering additional precipitation to southern Colorado. Total accumulations across the region are expected to range from 0.10 inches to 0.75 inches. Forecasters indicate the area will dry out next week, with temperatures returning to more seasonal levels.