Las Vegas is set for a stretch of dry and breezy conditions with temperatures staying around seasonal norms for today, according to the National Weather Service Las Vegas NV. This tranquil weather pattern is expected to persist into tomorrow before it gives way to a buildup of a ridge over the Desert Southwest. This change will signal the return of monsoonal moisture and a consequent rise in temperatures later in the week to hotter than normal levels.
Today's conditions will be nearly identical to Monday's, with south-southwest winds picking up at 20-25 mph during the afternoon and temperatures hovering just a degree or so from previous readings. There seems to be an only slight fluctuation as the Pacific Northwest trough currently passing over northern Nevada moves on, paving the way for a ridge that will foster warmer temperatures. However, residents should be aware of the significant levels of smoke carried into Inyo, Esmeralda, and Nye counties from ongoing wildfires like the Borel Fire.
Forecasters also raise concerns over potential disruptions due to wildfire smoke, notably the Nixon Fire, affecting eastern San Bernardino County and southern Nevada. While surface visibilities at airports may not experience substantial reductions, slantwise visibilities could be impacted, which would affect areas along the Mormon Mesa corridor. Otherwise, the region anticipates no significant changes in cloud cover or additional weather disturbances as per the latest update.
Looking ahead, an inverted trough from the northern Baja Peninsula will coordinate with the ridge to steer moisture into the area around Thursday and Friday, bringing chances of showers and thunderstorms that might stay through the weekend. Despite the anticipated increase in cloud cover and precipitation probabilities, the temperatures are likely to remain above the seasonal average, particularly for regions along the Colorado River Valley and Death Valley NP which could soar back into the 110-115 and above 120 degrees range respectively. "With those slightly lower highs, HeatRisk output only shows 'spotty' Major to Extreme values," the NWS report adds, suggesting that heat advisories may not be necessary.
For air traffic, gusty south-southwest winds are expected to last throughout the day with the potential deviation in direction during certain hours. Pilots are advised to stay vigilant for reduction in slantwise visibilities caused by smoke, particularly for routes over southern Nevada corridors. The National Weather Service encourages spotters to report any significant weather or impacts as they occur, adhering to standard operating procedures.
