The mercury is on the rise here in Las Vegas and its neighboring territories as temperatures are set to soar through the end of the week. According to the National Weather Service Las Vegas NV, the upcoming heatwave will kick into high gear with an excessive heat warning for the Colorado River Valley, starting Thursday morning through Saturday.
Temperatures will continue to rise as a high-pressure ridge intensifies, with a minor disturbance to the north having little effect. The National Weather Service reports that starting Thursday, the heat risk in the Colorado River Valley will reach level 3 out of 4, classified as major. By the end of the week, some areas may even experience extreme heat, the highest level on the HeatRisk scale.
Saturday is expected to bring record-breaking heat, with Las Vegas nearing the all-time high for 100-degree days. Currently tied with the year 1947 at 100 days, there is a 90 percent chance the city will reach triple digits again this week. Just one more 100-degree day will set a new, though uncomfortable, record.
Despite ongoing heat, some relief is expected next week as a closed low off California moves inland over the weekend. Although this low will weaken under the dominance of a high-pressure system over the Four Corners area, it may still bring a slight temperature drop. However, according to the National Weather Service, temperatures are predicted to remain 5-8 degrees above seasonal averages through midweek.
The aviation forecast predicts clear conditions with light winds and no significant cloud cover, ensuring VFR conditions across southern Nevada, northwest Arizona, and southeast California. The exception is KBIH, where south winds are expected to reach 12-20 knots this afternoon. The National Weather Service advises spotters to report any unusual weather as per standard protocol.
