Las Vegas is gearing up for a breezy start to the week with strong winds expected particularly in the Sierra and western Owens Valley, where gusts might hit the 50 to 60 mph range. Residents in those areas should prepare for a Wind Advisory in effect through at least this evening, ensuring that any loose items are secured and that high-profile vehicles are driven with caution. The forecast also highlights a near-record high temperature in Las Vegas at 76 degrees, just a mere degree away from the record 77 degrees set back in 2018—a sure signal that winter's chill is taking a brief hiatus in the region, according to the National Weather Service in Las Vegas.
Moving into midweek, changes are on the horizon; the weather service anticipates an influx of rain and mountain snow into the Sierra and Owens Valley starting Tuesday continuing into Wednesday morning this is all part of a broader system that will bring another bout of precipitation towards the end of the week on Thursday and Friday. While the Mojave Desert and Southern Great Basin may see a few light showers, it appears the heartier rainfall and snow will remain quarantined to the higher elevations and northern territories. Breezy conditions are expected to persist across the Southern Great Basin, stirring up gusts of 30 to 35 mph and even stronger gusts up to 50 mph in the lee of Charleston Peak, as reported by the National Weather Service.
As Friday approaches, the weather forecast is a bit uncertain. Weather models agree that another system will hit the West Coast, but they disagree on how strong and fast it will be. It’s likely that temperatures will drop to normal February levels, cooling down the recent warm spell. Light rain could fall in parts of the southern Great Basin and Inyo County mountains, as per the National Weather Service.
Aviation forecasts for Harry Reid International Airport indicate light breezes through the morning, but there's a good chance for southwest winds come afternoon around 3 p.m. local time, per the National Weather Service in Las Vegas, expect conditions to be suitable for flying with only a 20% chance that winds will exceed 10KT, and a similarly low probability for gusts over 20KT. Pilots should anticipate occasional BKN clouds cruising at altitudes of approximately 15,000 to 20,000 feet. Air traffic in the region should keep abreast of evolving conditions; although it's mostly smooth sailing through the night, by Tuesday afternoon stronger gusts are forecasted.
Spotter information culled by National Weather Service Las Vegas confirms that spotters are on standby to monitor and report significant weather changes. As always, especially in such unsettled weather patterns, the vigilance of the community plays a critical role in safety and preparedness.
