The National Weather Service Las Vegas, in an update early this morning, announced a series of weather advisories as an upper-level trough barrels through the region. According to NWS Las Vegas, "Widespread precipitation moves in today along with continued gusty winds" as the city braces for a mix of weather patterns that include snowfall above 5,000 feet, bringing winter storm warnings and advisories to higher elevations.
In the forecast discussion, there's a focus on the snow expected in terrain above 6,000ft, particularly within the Spring Mountains and central Nye County, which could see "high chances (70%+) for snow rates of 1 in/hr." With a rapidly approaching system, the mixture of moisture and cold air is anticipated to bring an unusual winter scene to the desert. Residents can expect snow levels to drop quickly from 5000-6000ft to 4000ft or less as the colder air sweeps in behind the main band of precipitation. Despite this, the vast majority of the precipitation will have ended by the time the cold truly sets in, although the NWS calls for vigilance for any developing “wrap around precipitation” in the chilly core this afternoon.
Alongside the snowy conditions, strong gusty winds add to the onslaught already felt across California and bleeding into Nevada and Arizona. "Gusty south winds over 40 MPH are likely across much of the region by this afternoon," the NWS explains, fueling the need for wind advisories. This tumultuous situation is poised to die down by Friday with the trough's eastward shift, although a reinforcing wave of energy may spark extra showers later on. Nonetheless, the impacts of Friday's system are predicted to be much more scattered and less intense than what the current conditions propose.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures are expected to rebound to the 60s and 70s across lower elevations, closely aligning with normal temperatures for the season. However, a note for relief: "winds will also be quite a bit lighter, making for a great weekend for those who have outdoor plans." Yet the brevity of the calm is to be noted, another weather system is on the horizon, predicted to stir things up again early next week with potential breezy to windier conditions once more, albeit likely drier than what's currently being experienced.
Transportation wise, Harry Reid International Airport may see some effects of the changing climate. The NWS advises that "breezy southerly winds will pick up and become more southwesterly," affecting arrival and departure patterns. Those planning on flying or picking someone up from the airport have to keep an eye out for potential delays and exercise caution, as the occasional gust might just be more than a desert breeze.
