Las Vegans should prepare for gusty winds as the National Weather Service in Las Vegas has forecasted increased southwesterly winds starting today, intensifying overnight until tomorrow. The Sierra and Spring Mountains will experience the strongest winds, but areas downwind will also feel the effects. A wind advisory has been issued, along with heavy snow expected in areas above 8000 feet, with an accumulation of 8 to 12 inches.
According to the National Weather Service, these weather disturbances are linked to a system located about 400 miles off central California's coast, bringing precipitation to the Sierra and Owens Valley later today. Heavier rainfall is expected near the eastern foothills of the Sierra. The wind advisory will be in effect from late this morning through tomorrow evening, with winds expected to increase overnight until tomorrow, particularly near the Spring Mountains. Gusts may exceed 60 mph in areas like Desert Rock, Red Rock Canyon, and parts of the western Las Vegas Valley early tomorrow.
Temperatures are expected to cool further over the weekend, dropping below the seasonal norm by Tuesday. A possible influx of moisture is expected to hit the West Coast starting Wednesday, but the exact timing and track remain uncertain. Meteorologists are monitoring this system as it develops.
In aviation, southerly to southwesterly winds will continue at Harry Reid International Airport, with increasing wind strength and gusts into the evening. Similar wind patterns will affect southern Nevada, northwest Arizona, and southeast California, with shifts in wind direction by mid-morning. Winds will pick up around mid-to-late morning, with gusts of 20 to 30 knots continuing into the evening. Spotters are encouraged to report significant weather events.
