Weather in Denver

Stay up to date with the latest weather conditions in Denver. Below you will find current data, forecasts, and useful weather charts.

The climate of Denver is characterised as semi-arid continental, with four distinct seasons. This means that travellers can expect significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Winters here are generally cold, with average temperatures around freezing and night-time frosts, while summer brings warmth and occasionally heat, with plenty of sunny days when maximum temperatures can exceed 30°C.

A distinctive feature of the weather in Denver is the low level of precipitation throughout the year, making it a relatively dry city. The highest amount of rainfall and rainy days occurs during the spring months, especially May. Despite this, even during these periods, precipitation remains low. Overall, Denver offers many sunny days, making it an attractive destination to visit at any time of year, depending on your temperature preferences.

The temperature regime in Denver shows pronounced seasonal variations. The coldest months are traditionally January and February: the average temperature during this period stays around -1.3°C – -1.5°C, while night-time lows can drop to -8°C – -9°C. The peak of summer heat falls in July and August. In July, the average air temperature is about 22.8°C, with daytime highs often exceeding 30°C, reaching 30.5°C. August is also characterised as a very warm month with an average temperature of 22.2°C and maximum values approaching 29.7°C. Thus, the annual temperature progression in Denver is marked by significant contrast.

The summer months in Denver, spanning from June to August, bring hot weather during the day and noticeable coolness at night. Daytime temperatures often rise to 27-30°C, and can be even higher in July, while night-time values drop to a comfortable 12-15°C, creating a significant diurnal range. Winter, lasting from December to February, is distinguished by consistently cold weather. Average daytime temperatures during this period fluctuate between 5°C and 7.4°C, though they often drop below freezing, especially in January and February. Night-time frosts are a common occurrence, with temperatures reaching -6°C – -9°C. Spring and autumn are also characterised by noticeable temperature fluctuations between day and night.

In Denver, precipitation falls year-round, but the total amount is small, which is typical for the region's semi-arid climate. Although there is no distinct rainy season, there is a tendency for an increase in precipitation amount and the number of rainy days from late spring to mid-summer. The peak of this activity occurs in May, which is the wettest month: on average, 3 mm of precipitation falls, and the number of days with precipitation reaches 14.

After the May peak, precipitation volume decreases slightly in June and July (to 2 mm per month), but the number of days with precipitation remains relatively high – about 11 days. Starting from August through the end of the year, a drier period sets in. In the months from August to December, as well as in January and February, only about 1 mm of precipitation falls monthly. The fewest days with precipitation are recorded in December (on average 4 days), followed by November (5 days), as well as January, September, and October (6 days each).

The nature of precipitation in Denver depends directly on the season. During the winter months (December, January, February), when the average air temperature hovers around -1.3°C to 0.7°C, and night-time lows can drop significantly below zero (to -9°C), precipitation most often falls as snow. Snowfalls are also likely in transitional months such as March and November. During the rest of the year, from April to October, when temperatures are significantly higher, precipitation is predominantly represented by rain. Although May is considered the wettest month, even during this period, rains are not constant, leaving plenty of dry and sunny days.

When planning a trip to Denver, it is important to consider its changeable climate and significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year and even throughout the day. A key principle when packing your suitcase is layering. This will allow you to easily adapt to cool mornings, warm days, and colder evenings. Regardless of the season, comfortable walking shoes are an absolute necessity, as the city is conducive to walking. Do not forget sunscreen and sunglasses either, as Denver is located at a high altitude, and the sun here is very active even on cool days.

In winter (December-February), pack warm clothing: a winter jacket, sweaters, fleece tops, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Temperatures often drop below freezing, especially at night, and snowfall is possible, so waterproof shoes will be useful. In spring (March-May), the weather is changeable: you will need a medium-weight jacket that can be combined with lighter layers. May is the wettest month, so a light raincoat or umbrella may come in handy. In summer (June-August), warm and sunny weather prevails, so take light clothing: t-shirts, shorts, dresses. However, evenings can be cool, so a light jacket or sweater will not go amiss. In autumn (September-November), the weather becomes cooler, especially towards November. Layering, jackets, and warm sweaters become relevant again. The small amount of precipitation makes this period comfortable for walks, but warm clothes are mandatory.

Given the general dryness of the climate in Denver, especially during months with low rainfall, it is useful to carry moisturising cream and lip balm. Also, due to the altitude and dry air, it is recommended to drink enough water, so a reusable water bottle that can be refilled throughout the day will become your faithful companion.