Las Vegans can expect a shift in weather, with forecasts indicating a mix of precipitation and gusty winds rolling into the area later this week. According to the National Weather Service Las Vegas NV, today's temperatures should hold steady. However, an incoming dynamic weather system is set to shake things up starting Thursday and rolling into the weekend.
The recent passage of a moist shortwave and a deepening upper-level low in the southeastern Pacific Ocean are combining forces to bring moisture to the Desert Southwest. Wednesday will see a convergence zone forming as a trough descends upon the Intermountain West, "This combination of moisture advection and convergence ascent will result in increased PoPs across the southern Great Basin on Wednesday and gusty south-southwest winds," the agency reported. Expect light rainfall favoring higher terrain, with a possibility for occasional lightning, and Wednesday offering the last of the week's "warm" temperatures, as per the National Weather Service Las Vegas NV.
Thursday's weather scenario looks more convoluted as the cold front presses south through southern Nevada and the northern Mojave Desert. This event is lined up to become the driver for rainfall and potential thunderstorms into Friday, "Expecting scattered shower and isolated thunderstorms to develop along the front Thursday afternoon, with activity potentially continuing Thursday night, and Friday as the front sags southward," per National Weather Service Las Vegas NV. Model projections show uncertainty in the forecast, primarily on the extent of low-level moisture and its interaction with cooler air aloft.
As the front makes its way, temperatures will take a noticeable dip. Snow levels are set to fall from 8000 ft to around 6500 ft, signaling possible late-season snow in the higher elevations like the Spring Mountains and Sierra. Gusty conditions are also on the cards, particularly on Thursday, which could lead to minor wind impacts, the service foresees "70% chance" in western San Bernardino County. Other areas may see less severe wind-related issues, but widespread gusts of 25-40 mph are expected. "Once the low closes off over our area on Friday, the risk for impactful winds decreases," the forecasters add. Post-storm, temperatures should ease back to typical mid-April ranges by Sunday and Monday, as reported by the National Weather Service Las Vegas NV.
Aviation-wise, Harry Reid and the surrounding areas anticipate VFR conditions after an early showing of isolated light rain and higher clouds. Winds will mostly stay gentle, oscillating from east in the early morning to south and southwest by evening. Across southern Nevada, northwest Arizona, and southeast California, similar patterns are expected, although some locations like KBIH might experience wind gusts up to 20-25KT briefly this afternoon. Spotters are encouraged to report significant weather – either through the usual channels or as standard operating procedures dictate.
