Las Vegas residents and visitors should prepare for a significant change in weather as a powerful system moves into the area, bringing gusty winds and a sharp drop in temperature. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Las Vegas, while today’s weather remains mild with light breezes and above-average temperatures, conditions are expected to change noticeably by tonight.
The NWS has issued a High Wind Warning for Inyo and San Bernardino counties, the Spring Mountains and Sheep Range in Clark County, and along the Colorado River Valley, effective from 7 a.m. PST Tuesday to 4 p.m. PST Wednesday. Parts of Clark County including the Las Vegas Valley are also included in this advisory with wind gusts potentially exceeding 60 mph. In a pointed reminder of the systems volatility, trash bins, holiday decorations and even trampolines are at risk of being thrown around, adding to hazards such as downed power lines and falling tree limbs.
The wind event is likely to impact travelers as well, with reduced visibility from blowing dust and strong crosswinds anticipated along east-west oriented roads. Boaters should also take heed, as wave heights on Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, and Lake Havasu are expected to range between 2 and 4 feet, posing dangerous boating conditions. While the wind remains the primary concern, the NWS hasn't ruled out the possibility of light snow shower activity in the higher terrain of southern Nevada, with a slight chance for 1-3 inches of snow due to modest moisture and dynamic cold pool associated with the system.
As we head into the latter part of the week, the forecast suggests more of the same. Thursday could deliver another bout of gusty northerly winds with the potential for Wind Advisory conditions, particularly in Clark and southern Lincoln counties and along the Colorado River Valley. "This includes a 50 percent or greater probability of gusts over 57 mph," as per the NWS's statement, indicating conditions that could meet High Wind Warning criteria in these regions. As the system persists, near-average temperatures should hold steady throughout the weekend, providing a small comfort amid the turbulent conditions.
Aviation will be impacted, with Harry Reid International Airport expecting one more day of calm before northwest or north winds, gusting between 30 to 40 knots, begin on Tuesday. The NWS indicates that southern Nevada, northwest Arizona, and southeast California should anticipate widespread strong northerly winds and mechanical turbulence following the passage of the front. VFR conditions are expected to return across the area by Tuesday evening. The NWS also asks spotters to report any significant weather impacts as they occur.
