Lisa Hidalgo

Wildfire smoke from Washington and Montana has blanketed northern Colorado, causing air quality alerts and health concerns. Aurora firefighters have deployed to assist with the Sinlahekin Fire in Washington, which has burned over 73,000 acres and threatens structures.

The Denver metro area received much-needed rain on Wednesday, with additional rain expected Thursday as monsoon moisture brings widespread showers and potential heavy rain. Flash flooding threats persist near burn scars, while temperatures will cool to the mid to upper 80s before rising to near-record highs by the weekend.

In Colorado's June 'Climate Conversation' with CPR and Denver7, host Ryan Warner and Denver7 chief meteorologist Lisa Hidalgo discuss the state's intense heat, deteriorating air quality, widespread drought, and the potential impacts of a strengthening El Niño, which could bring heavier monsoon rains and improved winter snowpack. Climate outlooks suggest above-average temperatures may persist, with the entire state currently experiencing drought conditions.

Northeastern Colorado faces another round of severe weather on Wednesday, including potential tornadoes, baseball to softball-sized hail, and 70+ mph wind gusts. A tornado watch is in effect for multiple counties, including Weld, Morgan, and Adams, as tracked by the Denver7 weather team and NWS.

Counties in Colorado, including Elbert County, have increased fire restrictions to Stage 2 due to extreme drought and high temperatures, prohibiting fireworks and slash pile burning. Officials cite dry conditions and increased fire risk, with Summit County also implementing similar restrictions. The Elizabeth Fire Protection District highlights the need for community safety amid heightened fire danger.

Denver metro and eastern plains in Colorado are under a severe thunderstorm watch through Wednesday, with potential for large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes. Smoky skies from Utah wildfires combined with rising temperatures and moisture are fueling the storms, which are expected to develop Tuesday afternoon and persist into the evening.