Colorado mountains could see near-record temperatures as heat dome develops over the West

Colorado’s mountains are in for a hot, dry weekend as a heat dome sets up over the West, according to forecasters.

National Weather Service forecaster Kate Abbott said the ridge of high pressure that is building will push out any lingering moisture away from the Western Slope and could send temperatures soaring. Some locations are likely to break daily high temperature records.

“In general, starting Saturday, most of the region is (forecasted to be) about 10 degrees above normal for this time of year,” Abbott said. “Especially north of (Interstate 70), we see that number grow to 10 to 15 degrees above normal on Sunday and Monday, potentially into Tuesday too.”

The extreme heat comes as Colorado faces a historic drought and five major wildfires burn across the state. 

Counties including Summit, Eagle, Pitkin, Lake and parts of Grand, Garfield, Rio Blanco and Moffat have experienced exceptional drought — the highest level — for the majority of the past three months, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Every county west of Denver has fire restrictions in place banning campfires.

While a high-pressure system is expected to bring calmer winds than July has seen so far, Abbott said the risk of wildfires will remain elevated due to the heat and record-dry conditions resulting from the drought.

“Just be cognizant of making sure to stay extra hydrated this week and to seek shade or stay indoors as much as possible,” Abbott said. “Even in the mountains, we’re still going to be well above normal for this time of year. Do what you can to keep yourself safe and prepared for the incoming heat.”