The National Weather Service in Las Vegas maintains its Extreme Heat Warning as temperatures are expected to climb back into the triple digits, with nighttime lows providing minimal relief from the heat. A cooldown is forecast to arrive by the weekend.
According to the latest update, today's temperatures are expected to be a few degrees lower than yesterday’s highs due to a weakening high-pressure ridge. However, temperatures will remain 5-8 degrees above the seasonal average across the desert valleys, the main area affected by the heat event. An advisory remains in effect for the ongoing moderate to major heat risk, as reported by the NWS.
Adding to the situation, winds are expected to increase through Saturday, raising fire danger to critical levels. The combination of gusty winds and afternoon humidity in the single digits is forecast to create extended hazardous fire conditions and a higher potential for fire spread. Southern Nevada and western Arizona are currently under a Red Flag Warning, emphasizing the severity of the threat in those regions.
Strong gusts, especially notable in the Western Mojave Desert, are expected to peak on Friday and Saturday, with over a 70% chance of exceeding 40 MPH. The upper-level trough following the high-pressure system causing these winds is responsible for both the gusty conditions and the arrival of cooler temperatures. As the trough moves in, temperatures are forecast to decrease into the 90s by late weekend, contrasting with the preceding hotter days. Aviation operations at Harry Reid International Airport are preparing for daytime wind gusts of 20 to 30 knots, resulting in clear but turbulent skies.
Despite the ongoing heat and strong winds, a cooler start to the last week of June is expected, according to the NWS report. Spotters throughout the region continue to monitor and report significant weather developments to support community safety and preparedness.
