MONDAY, July 20, 2026|
Photo – This week’s weather forecast – Courtesy NWS – Cheyenne
Despite predicted monsoonal rains, forecasters say our area still needs more moisture.
This year, much of the country has been experiencing above‑average temperatures and well below‑average rain, with Colorado and Wyoming facing severe short‑term precipitation shortfalls. National Weather Service Cheyenne Lead Meteorologist and Fire Weather Program Lead Colby Goatley said this week will start with temperatures climbing into the triple digits in some parts of the state. However, he said heavy rain is expected as the week progresses.
Goatley said our area will need far more moisture to break the existing drought conditions, but the forecasted rain will be a good start.
When asked if the current weather pattern is the result of El Niño or its cooler-phase counterpart, La Niña, Goatley said El Niño may play a part, but the weather is driven by a variety of regional and local factors.
The lack of moisture has led many local, state, and federal agencies to institute fire restrictions, sharply limiting when and where outdoor fires can occur to prevent them from spreading out of control. Although the coming monsoons will help, Goatley said more rain is needed before those restrictions can end.
Even with rain in the forecast, officials say that only prolonged and widespread moisture will ease the region’s ongoing drought and fire risk.
