As monsoon-driven moisture moves across Colorado, Denver could see rounds of rain Thursday as scattered to across the area through the afternoon and evening, according to the National Weather Service in Boulder.
A forecast for Thursday said showers are likely between , with a chance of a thunderstorm during that period. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to become more widespread after 3 p.m.
Partly sunny skies are expected, with temperatures reaching a high near 89 degrees. Winds may gust up to 15 mph, and there is a 60% chance of precipitation.
Localized rainfall totals of 2 to 3 inches could trigger flash flooding, particularly in burn scars from summer wildfires and areas that have received heavy rainfall in recent days.
Flash floods create a serious threat to motorists traveling on state highways, where fast-moving water, debris and rockfalls can quickly wash out roads or wash debris onto the roadway, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation.
Areas of particular concern include highways near the Ferris fire burn scar near Dolores in southwest Colorado and the Gold Mountain fire burn scar near Ouray, where the loss of vegetation has heightened the risk of sudden debris flows during and after periods of heavy rainfall.
CDOT crews are closely and are prepared to close roads on short notice if conditions become unsafe.
The National Weather Service’s also highlights areas across Colorado that face an elevated risk of flash flooding. As of 3:24 a.m. Thursday, elevated risk areas included the Elk/Lee Complex, Gold Mountain, Willow and Aspen Acres burn scars.
In addition to the flooding threat, storms may bring frequent lightning, gusty winds, heavy rain and small hail. The National Weather Service is urging residents to remain weather-aware, especially if spending time outdoors.
This is a developing story and may be updated.
