Denver & Front Range Put On Drought Watch, Another County Adds Burn Ban

DENVER (CBS4) - It's sometimes hard to comprehend how fast things can change in a place like the Front Range when it comes to weather and climate.

Just a few months ago we were talking about record rain, flooding and the end of drought.

Now, after a hot and dry end to summer and start of fall, we're back on drought watch.

On Thursday the US Drought Monitor released their weekly drought map of the United States and much of Colorado's Front Range, including Denver, has been placed in the "abnormally dry" category.

Abnormally dry means the area is now experiencing pre-drought conditions and is on drought watch.

In response to the rapidly changing conditions Jefferson County has joined a growing list of locations issuing burn bans.

With no immediate end in sight for the hot and dry weather, Denver is expected to have it's warmest September since records began in 1873 and be in the top five driest.

Records highs are possible across the region this weekend.

Wildfire Resources

- Visit CBSDenver.com's Living With Wildfire section.

Wildfire Photo Galleries

- See images from the most destructive wildfires (Black Forest, Waldo Canyon, High Park and Fourmile) and largest wildfire (Hayman) in Colorado history.

Meteorologist Chris Spears writes about stories related to weather and climate in Colorado. Check out his bio, connect with him on Facebook or follow him on Twitter @ChrisCBS4.