Las Vegas and surrounding areas are expected to experience temperatures 15 to 20 degrees above normal, with several daily high temperature records potentially breaking, including in Las Vegas. Areas like Bishop, Needles, Barstow-Daggett, and Desert Rock-Mercury will also see higher-than-usual temperatures. A shortwave in the Pacific Northwest will increase winds and temperatures. While 100 degrees in Las Vegas today is unlikely, the National Weather Service said, “There are a number of daily high temperature records in jeopardy.” The forecast includes a “Moderate” Heat Risk (Level 2) for valley locations and a “Minor” Heat Risk (Level 1) for areas below 7500 feet, advising people sensitive to heat to take precautions.
Wind patterns will change over the weekend as a trough moves through the region, bringing south-southwesterly wind gusts. On Saturday, the winds are expected to be the strongest, with widespread gusts between 20 and 30 mph and higher gusts in higher terrain. The National Weather Service is monitoring the southern Owens Valley for possible travel impacts along Highway 395. Next week, temperatures will gradually drop as a Rex Block pattern develops, but conditions will remain above normal. Wednesday will be the “coldest” day, with high temperatures still 8 to 10 degrees above normal. The extended forecast shows dry weather with low chances of strong wind gusts, except in wind-prone areas.
Harry Reid International and surrounding areas will experience light and variable winds, shifting to the southeast by afternoon, with gusts of 20 to 25 knots in the evening. Pilots in southern Nevada, northwest Arizona, and southeast California should expect similar conditions, with winds becoming southwesterly and gusty later in the day. “FEW to BKN mid-to-high clouds will filter through the region with bases aoa 15 kft.” Extreme heat may threaten climate records, including Las Vegas’s 93-degree record from 2023. The National Weather Service advises staying hydrated, seeking shade, and limiting strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
