The National Weather Service in Las Vegas has forecasted a pattern of high pressure settling over the region today and Friday, which will lead to temperatures around the seasonal norms. According to the National Weather Service, residents can expect highs ranging between 60 to 65 degrees across the Mojave Desert zones, with clear skies persisting until increasing high clouds edge in by late Friday.
As the weekend approaches, Pacific moisture will make a dramatic entrance, drenching northern California and northern Nevada with a forecasted atmospheric river. However, much of this moisture is anticipated to be intercepted by the Sierra, leaving only a lighter brush for the southern regions, " with some potential for spillover precipitation into the Owens Valley (though ensemble members are pretty split on this occurrence)," as mentioned by the National Weather Service. Snow levels are expected to remain at the 8,000 to 8,500 feet mark, pointing to the mild nature of the incoming system.
The looming atmospheric river also ushers in a dilemma for the Sierra; while snow levels remain high, there's a 30 to 40 percent chance of precipitation in areas from Mount Whitney to Aspendell, with a 20 percent chance in the Owens Valley. While southern Nevada, northwest Arizona, and southeast California are set for consistent winds under 10 knots, the National Weather Service advises that conditions could herald 10 knot winds or stronger at KDAG this morning and afternoon, tapering off in the evening.
Saturday and Sunday could see the region sandwiched between air pressure highs and lows, with gusty southwest winds anticipated between 20 to 30 mph in south-central Nevada and even stronger downsloping winds potentially pummeling the Sierra with forces of 35 to 45 mph. As the atmospheric river moisture begins to "sag southward heading into next week," the bulk of the Mojave Desert may yet avoid any significant wetness, with the National Weather Service stating that they "will continue to assess the nature, location, and magnitude of this incoming moisture as we head closer."
For aviation interests, such as at Harry Reid airport, the National Weather Service expects winds to follow their typical daily pattern, with speeds under 10 knots. High clouds will enter the region on Friday, potentially changing the clear conditions pilots have enjoyed. The National Weather Service encourages spotters to report any significant weather conditions as per usual protocol.
