Residents of Las Vegas and surrounding area, get ready for a tough weather weekend. The National Weather Service in Las Vegas has issued a forecast highlighting a return of monsoonal moisture and the possibility of showers and thunderstorms to the region. The NWS warns of "monsoonal moisture and chances for showers and thunderstorms return tonight through the weekend." In particular, Mohave, Lincoln, and Clark counties should grab an umbrella before stepping out.
According to the NWS, there's an added wrinkle to keep an eye on. An unusual meteorological feature, described as a "mesoscale convective vortex," is expected "move to the north," which could kick up some potentially volatile weather conditions. Although this vortex is likely to reduce the risk of dry lightning, early risers might get a rude awakening with "early morning wake-up thunder." As the storm approaches, everyone should stay informed and adjust their plans as needed.
While the eastern parts of the forecast area are preparing for wetter times, the western regions are facing a very different threat. The NWS has upgraded a Fire Weather Watch to a Red Flag Warning for Esmeralda and Nye counties for both Saturday and Sunday, which signals "critical fire weather conditions." This comes as officials report "These winds combined with afternoon relative humidities around 10% to 15% and dry fuels will result in critical fire weather conditions" across the southern Nevada area. Extreme caution and heightened awareness are recommended in these areas over the weekend.
Turning to flight operations, the aviation outlook around Harry Reid International Airport naturally is taking into account the elevated weather activities. The NWS anticipates "south to southwest winds increase late morning and afternoon" with gusts peaking between 20-25 knots. Flyers might also to keep an ear to the ground as there is a 15-20% chance of thunderstorms after 06z Saturday particularly affecting eastern Clark and Lincoln Counties and potentially disrupting flight paths.
The NWS encourages spotters to report any significant weather or impacts according to standard operating procedures.
