Kicking off 2025 in Las Vegas, the weather at the start of the New Year is forecast to be mild, similar to the conditions from the previous night. According to the National Weather Service Las Vegas, we're under a "dry, NW flow aloft" which translates to scattered high clouds and temperatures hanging around seasonal averages.
A slight warmup is expected tomorrow, though, the National Weather Service reports, with a 2-6 degree bump expected especially in "the southern Great Basin and northwestern Arizona." In good news for those in the Colorado River Valley, winds are expected to remain generally calm across the area, aside from the persistent northerly breezes.
Looking ahead to the weekend, a ridge of high pressure is expected to weaken as a trough approaches from the northwest. The forecast indicates that this feature will have a mostly indirect impact on the area starting late Friday, with high clouds passing through and mild breezes in certain areas. No significant weather changes are expected.
The forecast indicates that the upcoming trough is expected to have limited moisture, meaning little to no rain is anticipated. Following this, a brief period of northwest upper-level flow will develop as an eastern Pacific ridge moves in, bringing northerly air currents and increasing the likelihood of stronger winds early next week, particularly in the lower Colorado River Valley. Temperatures are expected to peak on Friday and then gradually cool into next week, though they will remain above average for this time of year.
For aviators, Harry Reid International is expected to experience light winds and clear skies, with sustained wind speeds remaining below 8 knots, according to the forecast. Similarly, the rest of southern Nevada, northwest Arizona, and southeast California can expect similar conditions, with the exception of occasional gusts along the Colorado River Valley.
Lastly, a reminder to the community's weather spotters: if any unusual conditions occur, please report them according to standard operating procedures. Your observations help keep everyone informed.
