Brace yourselves, Las Vegas and neighboring regions—a bout of dynamic spring weather is set to sweep through the area this coming week, according to the National Weather Service in Las Vegas. Residents can expect strong, gusty winds early in the week, followed by cooler temperatures and unsettled conditions. Precipitation will likely affect the Sierra and southern Great Basin, though it is expected to be light and scattered. For a more detailed forecast, visit the NWS website.
Today and tomorrow will bring the final stretch of seasonal warmth before a low-pressure system from the Pacific Northwest introduces a colder air mass. Wind advisories are in effect for tomorrow, with gusts of up to 55 mph expected from the eastern Sierra through the Mojave Desert and into northwestern Arizona. Additionally, Inyo County and southern Nevada are on high alert for downslope winds that could intensify conditions, making Las Vegas and the Owens Valley particularly vulnerable. While there is some uncertainty about the severity of the winds, the NWS has issued a High Wind Watch but has not yet confirmed specific advisories.
When it comes to rain and snow, if you're perched up in the Eastern Sierra, you might see a modest accumulation – with Aspendell set for up to four inches of snow – yet the rest of the forecast areas should expect only a smattering. The downhill slide in temperatures kicks off on Tuesday, and by early April, we'll be feeling the briskness settle in with daily highs hovering about ten degrees below what's typical for this time of year.
The ongoing trough pattern is also going to keep the chilly vibe going for the duration of the week, though winds may ease up a bit. But the folks out in Barstow and Twentynine Palms shouldn't stow their wind chimes just yet – there's a 75% shot they'll still be batting gusts upwards of 40 mph. And while the precipitation outlook isn't looking particularly rosy, higher elevations could see some sporadic showers toward the week's end, once the system curls into a closed low and tries to squeeze out a bit more moisture from the thin desert air.
Aviation-wise, those planning to wing it in or out of Harry Reid should anticipate gusty southwesterly winds up to 30 knots, which are expected to linger into the next morning. Other regions, including the Colorado River Valley, will see varied wind patterns and intensities. For up-to-the-minute aviation forecasts, check the NWS rundown here. As always, the National Weather Service appreciates reports from spotters and encourages them to communicate significant weather events according to their standard operating procedures.
