Las Vegas residents and visitors should brace for a potential weather rollercoaster today as the National Weather Service Las Vegas forecasts isolated-to-scattered showers and thunderstorms across southern Nevada and northwest Arizona, with a lesser likelihood in southeastern California. According to the forecast released by the National Weather Service Las Vegas, the region can expect "gusty outflow winds, frequent lightning, and moderate-to-heavy rain" as the main concerns with any storms that develop this afternoon.
In a statement obtained by the publication, the forecast discussion specified that "Isolated-to-scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected across southern Nevada and northwest Arizona this afternoon with lesser chances in southeastern California" due to favorable conditions with CAPE values around 500 to 1,000 J/kg and significant moisture. However, the threats posed by these showers and thunderstorms extend beyond just rain. The National Weather Service warns of "frequent and dangerous lightning and 30 to 40 mph outflow wind gusts," and even stronger gusts can reach up to 50 mph. While the potential for 1 inch hail is downplayed, "more robust convection may produce graupel or small hail"
The stormy interlude appears to be a mere blip in what's expected to be a return to typical June warmth in the region. The forecast from National Weather Service Las Vegas extends into early next week with a "strengthening ridge over the region," leading to a drying trend and escalating temperatures that "warming to well above normal Sunday through at least Tuesday." Residents should anticipate fairly widespread highs in the 90s and lower 100s during this period, bearing the brunt on Monday and Tuesday, which are looking to be the hottest days of the forecast.
If you're in or heading to low areas like Death Valley or the Lower Colorado River Valley, be prepared for dangerous heat. The National Weather Service in Las Vegas warns that major heat risk will return on Saturday, getting worse over the weekend and possibly reaching extreme levels in the lowest valleys by Monday and Tuesday. After that, there's a chance temperatures may cool slightly with some wind, but the forecast is still uncertain.
Aviation impacts are also a concern, as thunderstorms can result in "gusty and erratic winds, lightning, and brief heavy rain," potentially affecting operations at Harry Reid. Meanwhile, the Spotter Information Statement from National Weather Service Las Vegas urges spotters to report any significant weather or impacts according to standard operating procedures, underscoring the community's role in weather awareness and safety.
