Las Vegas residents and visitors should enjoy the warm and dry conditions today and Wednesday, as changes are on the horizon; a drastic shift in the weather pattern is expected later in the week, bringing much cooler temperatures and increased chances for precipitation. According to the National Weather Service Las Vegas NV, this turnaround could spell the season's first snowfall for the higher elevations of southern Nevada.
On Wednesday, strong south-southwesterly winds with 25 to 35 mph gusts will start to bring significant weather changes that will increase as the weekend approaches. A weak low-pressure system over the southeastern Great Basin and the eastern Mojave Desert is causing only small variations in daytime high temperatures.
A storm from the Gulf of Alaska is expected to hit the area from Thursday to next Tuesday, lowering temperatures in the Mojave Desert to the lower to mid-80s, which is typical for this time of year. The National Weather Service predicts the storm could bring scattered to numerous showers in southern Nevada and northwestern Arizona, with possible snow accumulations near the southwestern Utah border.
Aviation conditions for Harry Reid Airport and nearby areas, including southern Nevada, northwestern Arizona, and southeastern California, are expected to be normal with clear skies today through Wednesday morning. However, travelers and locals should be cautious as the weather changes. According to the National Weather Service, gusty south-southwest winds are expected on Thursday, which may impact flight operations and snow levels could drop to around 5,500 to 6,000 feet.
Increased fire danger warnings have been issued for Wednesday due to expected south-southwest winds, dry conditions, and cured vegetation. Afternoon humidity levels will be between 10 and 20 percent, with overnight recoveries above 45 percent. A Fire Weather Watch will be in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. PDT. The National Weather Service encourages spotters to report any significant weather events as they happen.
