Thunderstorms bring showers, lightning, fire danger

Rumbling thunder and dark clouds are forecast to mark a chance of rain through Saturday, a stark contrast to record heat that stifled the area just a few days ago.

Temperatures will remain in the upper-80s to low-90s, but there will also be a 20% chance of rain until Sunday, according to the National Weather Service. The threat of lightning as a result of the thunderstorms has put fire watchers on high alert given the tinder-dry conditions in the foothills.

The mix may make planning for several major outdoor events tomorrow challenging. The annual Oktoberfest in Montrose and Relay for Life event at Scholl Canyon are scheduled to run all day.

The weather system is expected to clear out by Sunday, when clear skies will take over with temperatures in the mid-80s, according to the weather agency.

Temperatures are forecast to remain mild, and perhaps even drop to the upper-70s early next week.