Denver reached a record-breaking high temperature of 100 degrees on Friday, August 21, at Denver International Airport, according to data from the National Weather Service in Boulder. The milestone surpassed the previous daily record of 99 degrees set in 2023, making it the fourth day this month the Mile High City has recorded temperatures at or above the century mark.
Triple-digit heat in August is rare in Denver. Thermometers have hit 100 degrees or higher at least 12 other times since record-keeping began in 1872, according to the National Weather Service. The highest temperature ever recorded in Denver during August remains 105 degrees, set in 1878.
Weekend Weather Shift and Cooling Trend
The record-breaking heat precedes a slight weekend cool-down and a shift in weather patterns across the region. According to Denver7 chief meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo, temperatures were expected to drop to around 90 degrees by 7 p.m. on Friday as the Denver Broncos kicked off their preseason home opener against the Green Bay Packers. Conditions by 10 p.m. were projected to cool further into the low 80s, accompanied by a slight chance of an isolated shower or storm.
https://x.com/NWSBoulder/status/2090919277880651859
Saturday brings a more pronounced cool-down and a heightened chance of precipitation. Forecasters report a better chance of showers and storms along the Front Range, with heavier showers, localized flooding, and a few severe storms expected on the northeastern Plains, according to Denver7.
Historical Context of Denver’s August Heat
The 105-degree August record from 1878 holds a unique place in local history, occurring during the same year Thomas Edison patented the phonograph.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the previous record for August 21 in Denver? The previous record was 99 degrees, set in 2023, according to the National Weather Service in Boulder.
- How often does Denver reach 100 degrees in August? The temperature has reached 100 degrees or higher in August at least 12 times since record-keeping began in 1872.
- What is the all-time August temperature record in Denver? The highest recorded August temperature is 105 degrees, set in 1878.
- What are the weekend weather expectations? Temperatures will drop slightly over the weekend, bringing an increased chance of showers and storms along the Front Range, along with potential localized flooding on the northeastern Plains, according to Denver7 meteorologists.
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