Temperatures in Denver today reached 100 degrees, matching the record for this date set in 1990.
A large mass of hot air has moved in over the metro area, bringing scorching temperatures and little chance of rain.
It will be nearly as hot Tuesday. The holiday on Wednesday could be a few degrees cooler, in the low 90s, but there is not much chance of relief for the rest of the week.
The hot-air mass is fairly stable and should prevent any violent storms from developing. The metro area has a slight chance of thunderstorms this afternoon. But the National Weather Service predicts there will be very little rain, if any, but some lightning.
When the weather remains so hot and the sun so bright, high levels of ozone develop at ground level.
Ozone affects the breathing of the elderly, those who suffer from respiratory ailments and small children. If they experience difficulty breathing, it most likely will occur between 2 p.m. and 11 p.m, and they are advised to remain indoors.
Ground-level ozone is created when pollutants from gas engines, paint, paint thinners and cleaning agents react with sunlight. During the hottest, sunniest days, people are encouraged to put off mowing their lawns, painting their houses or using sealers, cleaners and other chemicals.
High temperatures will reach into the 90s the rest of this week except for Thursday, when the high is predicted at 88 degrees. Lows will drop to the mid-60s.
