A dramatic shift in weather is poised to bring widespread rainfall to the Rocky Mountains and the Southern Plains this week, raising concerns for flash floods and travel disruptions. The change comes as a high-pressure system weakens over the Midwest and pulls in increased moisture, setting up a potentially volatile weather pattern.
What to Expect: Forecast Highlights
- Denver, CO (Rockies): The week brings cool, unsettled weather—with thunderstorms and showers forecast from Sunday through Friday, occasionally accompanied by gusty winds and small hail. Temperatures will range from the upper 60s to low 70s °F.
- Amarillo, TX (Southern Plains): Expect hot and humid conditions initially, transitioning to thunderstorms and rain from Monday onward. Temperatures will fall from low 90s °F to the upper 80s °F midweek, with scattered rain through the weekend.
Flood Threat on the Horizon
AccuWeather notes that dry conditions in the Plains are giving way to incoming moisture that could bring sudden, heavy downpours by Sunday night (“…rain likely begin to spread east‑ward…”).
The Weather Prediction Center (WPC) has issued an Excessive Rainfall Outlook, indicating a slight risk of flash flooding for parts of the Central and Southern Rockies into the Southern Plains on August 26–27. Embedded pulses of intense rain may produce localized flooding, especially in mountainous and upslope terrains.
Adding context, recent reporting underscores the threat of mainstream flooding triggered by a cold front over Texas—potentially unleashing “several inches” of rain, especially in the Texas Panhandle.
Risks for Travelers & Tourists
- Transportation Hazards: Flash floods can rapidly inundate highways and rural roads. Travelers near Denver–Pueblo (I‑25 corridor) and the Kansas–Oklahoma border should prepare for sudden road closures or detours.
- Outdoor Recreation: Hikers, campgrounds, and scenic drives in the Rockies should be particularly cautious of sudden water surges or trail washouts.
- Multiple Rain Events: Multiple rounds of rain through midweek, culminating on Wednesday, magnify flood risk. Accumulated ground saturation will worsen runoff and increase flood probabilities.
Safety Tips for Travelers
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Monitor local weather advisories | Stay updated on flood watches or warnings |
| Avoid crossing flooded roadways | Flash floods can sweep away vehicles |
| Choose sturdy, safe routes | Especially important when detours arise |
| Keep emergency supplies handy | Flash flooding can disrupt travel unexpectedly |
Beyond This Week: What Lies Ahead
Longer-term forecasts suggest a return to drier air toward early September, potentially easing flash flood risks. However, the current week remains volatile, especially for Labor Day weekend travel.
In Summary
Travelers heading into the Rocky Mountains or the Southern Plains should prepare for a week marked by stormy skies, heavy rainfall, and potential flash flooding. With multiple weather models converging on similar outcomes and grounded regional observations, the risk is real—and dynamic.
Staying connected to trusted weather sources like the National Weather Service, AccuWeather, and the Weather Prediction Center can go a long way in keeping you safe and informed.
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