Las Vegas and surrounding areas are bracing for a mix of weather conditions, including snow and rain in the Sierra and western Owens Valley, with windy circumstances elsewhere. The forecast anticipates that while gusty winds and record temperatures have been the norm, the upcoming days will see a shift, with incremental cooling towards the end of the week, according to the National Weather Service Las Vegas NV.
The current weather pattern is dominated by a deep trough off the Pacific Northwest coast, funneling Pacific moisture into Northern California. This moisture is expected to advance southward today, although with a lower impact than previously anticipated for Southern Sierra and Owens Valley. "Based on latest trends the heavier snow may not really get cranking until late in the afternoon and evening across the Sierra, with spillover into the Owens Valley fairly minimal through the daytime hours," the National Weather Service report details. The expected precipitation totals in the Bishop area by Wednesday morning have decreased substantially, now estimating in the 0.10-0.25 inch range.
In contrast to the inclement weather, Southern Nevada will continue to experience warm temperatures, flirting with record highs set just the day prior. The areas also face a wind advisory, particularly along the Spring Mountains, with the potential for gusts exceeding 40 mph. This advisory will persist through Wednesday evening, where, continued downslope winds are expected to contribute to elevated temperatures, as reported by the National Weather Service.
The long-term forecast from Wednesday to Monday shows a calming period midweek, followed by another snow event in the Eastern Sierra. This system may deliver an additional 1 to 2 feet of snow, particularly at higher elevations. "Persistent southwesterly flow will maintain breezy conditions and an element of downslope warming, keeping temperatures above normal," the National Weather Service report mentions, despite a slow overall cooling trend. The weekend forecast suggests a return to more regular temperatures, but with prevailing dry conditions.
Aviation sectors, especially Harry Reid Airport, will have to navigate breezy southwest winds this afternoon, with a high probability of gusts over 20KT. Tonight's wind strength is less certain, but there is potential for gusts to reach 25-30KT if they rush off the mountains into the terminals. Concerning precipitation, it is expected to remain in the Sierra peaks during the daytime, with a low chance of spilling into Inyo County and northern Esmeralda counties by tonight, potentially dropping CIGs to insights between 3000-5000ft. "Spotters are encouraged to report any significant weather or impacts according to standard operating procedures," the National Weather Service advises.
