Today's barometric pressure in Denver, a 48-hour pressure chart, and a risk score for weather-triggered migraine and headache, based on pressure drops, humidity, and temperature changes.
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At 5,280 feet elevation, Denver's baseline barometric pressure is already lower than most US cities. Chinook winds can raise temperatures 30 degrees in hours while dramatically shifting pressure, making Denver one of the most challenging cities for weather-sensitive migraine sufferers.
Worst season for migraines: October through May. Denver's 5,280-foot elevation means baseline pressure is already about 840 hPa rather than the sea-level 1013 hPa. Chinook wind events can raise temperatures 30-50 degrees in hours while dramatically shifting pressure, and spring brings volatile upslope storms.
Common triggers in Denver: Chinook wind pressure crashes, rapid altitude-related pressure changes during mountain travel, intense UV exposure at elevation. Denver's mile-high elevation makes it unique among major US cities for migraine considerations. The lower baseline pressure means the atmosphere is thinner, and weather-related pressure changes represent a larger percentage shift compared to sea-level cities. Visitors and new residents often experience adjustment headaches that can evolve into chronic patterns.
Typical pressure: Denver averages 840 hPa at rest, measured at the city's own elevation rather than corrected to sea level, and storm systems can push readings down to 825 hPa. Swings of 6-12 hPa over 24 hours are common during active weather and fall within the range most associated with pressure-triggered migraines.
2026 index: Denver ranks #2 of 100 in our 2026 U.S. Migraine Risk Index, where #1 is the most challenging city for weather-driven migraine.
Can Denver weather trigger migraines?
Yes. Denver experiences 6-12 hPa barometric pressure swings, and research shows pressure drops are one of the most common migraine triggers. The city's specific patterns include Chinook wind pressure crashes, rapid altitude-related pressure changes during mountain travel, intense UV exposure at elevation.
What time of year are migraines worst in Denver?
In Denver the most barometrically volatile stretch of the year falls in October through May. That is when weather is most likely to play a part, if weather is a trigger for you at all. See when migraine weather season starts across the U.S.
Is there a barometric pressure headache forecast for Denver?
This page works as one. Many people call a headache that arrives with a weather change a barometric pressure headache, and this forecast tracks the pressure drops, humidity and temperature swings behind that idea. The score covers the next 24 hours in Denver and the chart shows the next 48. It is built on migraine research, so treat it as a rough guide for other headaches. A sudden, severe headache needs urgent medical care, whatever the weather.
Your own forecast
This page shows the weather risk for everyone in Denver. The MigrAid app learns yours. It saves the barometric pressure, humidity and temperature with every migraine you log, shows whether Denver's swings really line up with your attacks, and alerts you when conditions match your own trigger history.