National Weather Service Issues Freeze Watch for Colorado Springs and El Paso County
Colorado Springs, CO — October 14, 2026
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Residents across Colorado Springs and El Paso County are being urged to prepare for a sharp drop in temperatures later this week as the National Weather Service (NWS) warns that freezing conditions could arrive Thursday night and continue into Friday morning.
The National Weather Service office in Pueblo issued a Freeze Watch early Wednesday, October 14, for portions of the Pikes Peak region, including Colorado Springs, Black Forest, Monument Ridge, and areas near Peterson Space Force Base.
Temperatures could fall into the upper 20s to lower 30s, potentially bringing the first damaging freeze of the season to some neighborhoods.
When Will Freezing Temperatures Arrive?
The Freeze Watch covers late Thursday night, October 15, through Friday morning, October 16.
Northern El Paso County and higher-elevation communities may experience some of the coldest temperatures, although conditions will vary by location.
A Freeze Watch means conditions are favorable for freezing temperatures, but a damaging freeze is not yet certain. The National Weather Service may upgrade the watch to a Freeze Warning if confidence increases.
What Residents Should Know
Temperatures below 32 degrees can damage sensitive plants and crops, especially when cold conditions persist for several hours.
Residents should consider taking precautions before Thursday evening:
- Protect outdoor plants: Bring potted plants indoors and cover sensitive vegetation.
- Check outdoor plumbing: Disconnect garden hoses and protect exposed pipes where necessary.
- Prepare for pets: Provide warm, sheltered areas for animals spending time outdoors.
- Check heating systems: Make sure home heating equipment is operating safely.
- Stay informed: Watch for updated forecasts and any Freeze Warning issued by the National Weather Service.
Why This Matters for Colorado Springs
Fall weather along Colorado’s Front Range can change quickly. Warm afternoons may be followed by overnight temperatures below freezing, particularly in neighborhoods at higher elevations.
Communities such as Black Forest, Monument, Falcon, and northern Colorado Springs can experience colder overnight temperatures than some lower-elevation areas.
A hard freeze can end the growing season for many sensitive plants, while even a brief period below freezing can cause damage to unprotected vegetation.
Will There Be Snow?
The Freeze Watch is specifically about the threat of freezing temperatures. It does not, by itself, indicate that snow or significant precipitation is expected.
Residents should monitor the latest forecast for any changes in precipitation or winter-weather conditions.
Stay Updated with Patriots First Media
The National Weather Service will continue evaluating the approaching cold weather and may issue additional advisories as Friday morning approaches.
Weather & radar
Loading the latest forecast…
Forecast and alerts: National Weather Service
Residents can follow official forecasts and active weather alerts at weather.gov/pub.
Patriots First Media will continue following weather developments across Colorado Springs and El Paso County.
Source: National Weather Service, Pueblo, Colorado. Forecast and alert conditions are subject to change.
Article discussion