Is lightning near Denver right now?
Checking…
Free push alert when lightning approaches Denver. Your exact location and alerts live in the app.
Thunderstorm season in Denver
Denver, CO averages about 41 thunderstorm days a year — roughly 1.6× the US average of 25. Lightning activity peaks May–August, when Colorado’s warm-season storms are most frequent.
- Thunderstorm days/yr
- 41
- Peak season
- May–August
- vs US average
- 1.6×
Source: NOAA / WMO climate normals — mean annual days with thunderstorms (1961–2010).
Lightning safety in Denver
When thunderstorms build over Denver, the distance to the nearest strike matters more than a city-wide count. Use the 30-30 rule: if thunder follows lightning by 30 seconds or less, get indoors, and wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before heading back out. StrikeCast surfaces the distance and trend so you can act before the storm reaches you.
Frequently asked
How far away is the nearest lightning to Denver?
StrikeCast shows the live distance in miles to the nearest strike near Denver, updated continuously from NOAA GOES-GLM satellite data, plus whether it is approaching or moving away.
Is it safe to be outside in Denver right now?
If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck. Follow the 30-30 rule: shelter when thunder follows lightning by 30 seconds or less, and wait 30 minutes after the last thunder. StrikeCast's distance and trend help you decide before the storm arrives.
When is thunderstorm season in Denver?
Denver sees the most lightning May–August, averaging about 41 thunderstorm days a year.
Can I get lightning alerts for Denver?
Yes. Get the free StrikeCast app, save Denver, and you will get a push alert when lightning approaches — no need to keep the app open.