Denver Braces for Arctic Blast Over MLK Day Weekend
This Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend, residents of the Denver metro area and much of Colorado are preparing for an arctic deep freeze, as a low-pressure system sweeps cold air down from Canada. Weather forecasts from the National Weather Service (NWS) in Boulder predict sub-zero temperatures overnight and daytime highs struggling to rise above the teens throughout the holiday weekend. While initial predictions estimated lows between -10 and -20 degrees, updated forecasts suggest slightly less extreme temperatures, but frigid conditions remain in the outlook.
Beginning Friday afternoon, temperatures are expected to drop by 10-15 degrees quickly as the arctic air moves from Wyoming. Snow showers, with accumulations of 2-4 inches, are anticipated to begin around 4 p.m. for the northern metro area. The following days will see continued snowfall and harsh conditions, with Saturday likely reaching a high of only 19 degrees and wind chills in the single digits. Sunday may see a brief return of sunlight, but temperatures will remain frigid, only reaching 15 degrees.
Monday is predicted to be the coldest day of the outbreak, with a high of just 10 degrees and possible light snow. Temperatures are predicted to plummet to -6 by Monday night. Fortunately, a return to sunnier and slightly warmer weather is expected Tuesday with highs around 31 degrees.
In response to these severe weather conditions, Denver is opening four emergency homeless shelters to provide warmth for those in need, extending operations through 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 21. These shelters will operate continuously, highlighting the city’s commitment to ensuring safety amidst the deep freeze.