What Happened
As Denver enters the summer months, the city is experiencing a significant heat wave, with temperatures expected to rise above normal levels. The National Weather Service and Climate Prediction Center have forecasted that this trend will continue, with highs reaching into the upper 80s and potentially hitting 90 degrees for the first time this season. Alongside the heat, there are also predictions of afternoon thunderstorms, which could provide some temporary relief but may also pose risks of heat-related illnesses.
In recent years, Colorado has seen a marked increase in extreme heat days, with health care providers preparing for a rise in heat-related illnesses. Last summer, the state recorded 21 heat-related deaths, a notable increase from 13 the previous year. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is urging residents to take precautions, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.
Key Details
- Temperature Forecast: Denver is expected to experience highs in the upper 80s through the week, with the potential for the first 90-degree day occurring over the weekend.
- Health Risks: In 2024, Colorado reported 21 heat-related deaths and 995 heat-related illness visits to medical providers. As of early June 2025, there have already been 72 reported cases of heat-related illnesses.
- Weather Patterns: The forecast indicates a mix of sunny skies and afternoon storms, with temperatures expected to remain above average. The National Weather Service is monitoring these conditions closely.
- Precautionary Measures: Health officials recommend that residents check on vulnerable neighbors and adjust outdoor activities to cooler parts of the day to mitigate heat risks.
Multiple Perspectives
Health officials, such as Ned Calonge, chief medical officer for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, emphasize the importance of adapting to the increasing frequency of extreme heat. Calonge notes that while residents are accustomed to preparing for winter weather, there has been a slower recognition of the dangers posed by extreme heat. He advocates for proactive measures, including checking on elderly neighbors and adjusting outdoor plans.
Conversely, climatologists like Peter Gobel express uncertainty about whether this summer will break previous heat records. Gobel likens the forecasting process to a game of poker, where various factors can influence outcomes. While the current outlook suggests a continuation of above-average temperatures, the potential for monsoonal rain patterns could introduce variability.
Context & Background
The increasing temperatures in Denver and across Colorado can be attributed to broader climate trends that have intensified in recent years. Last summer was particularly notable, with Grand Junction experiencing its hottest summer on record and Denver recording its second hottest summer since 2012. These patterns are consistent with findings from climate scientists that indicate a rising frequency and intensity of heat waves due to climate change.
The health implications of extreme heat are significant, particularly for populations that are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has initiated measures to address these risks, including the establishment of cooling centers for those without air conditioning and public awareness campaigns to educate residents on heat safety.
What We Don’t Know Yet
While forecasts indicate a continuation of hot weather, there remains uncertainty regarding the exact impact of monsoonal rain patterns and other climatic factors that could influence temperatures. It is unclear whether this summer will surpass previous heat records, and ongoing monitoring will be essential to assess the situation as it develops.
Additionally, the long-term health impacts of increasing heat days on the population remain to be fully understood. The state has begun to track heat-related illnesses in real-time, but comprehensive data on the broader health implications of extreme heat is still being gathered. As the summer progresses, the effectiveness of public health initiatives and community responses to heat risks will also be critical in determining outcomes for residents.
