The National Weather Service in Las Vegas issued an early morning forecast today advising residents of “slight chances of light rain” and “gusty north winds.” Forecasters said the conditions are linked to a low-pressure system pushing a frontal boundary into northwestern Mexico, which is expected to influence weather across the greater Las Vegas area. Residents are advised to plan for breezy conditions throughout the day, according to NWS.
Rain is most likely in Mohave County, while the rest of the region can expect wind gusts of 20 to 30 mph. Gusts could reach 30 to 40 mph in higher elevations and along valleys, including the Colorado River Valley, though wind advisories are not expected. Boating conditions on Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, and Lake Havasu may be rough, with waves of 1 to 3 feet. After the cold front, Sunday temperatures are expected to be slightly cooler, with “afternoon highs 1-3 degrees below seasonal normals.”
Looking ahead, there's a proverbial light at the end of the tunnel; "quiet weather returns" is the forecast for next week, as reported by the National Weather Service. A built-in atmospheric pressure around the Southwest will see daily temperatures climb, exceeding the usual temps for this time of year by Thursday by about 4 to 6 degrees. While you enjoy that mostly sunny sky, those who frequent the Colorado River Valley area should expect persistent breezes due to the coming and going of shortwave patterns.
Aviation forecasts for Harry Reid International Airport are also signaling a shift in conditions, as the National Weather Service anticipates northerly wind gusts following the passage of a morning cold front. Gusts could reach up to 25 knots before diminishing after sunset. Scattered showers and areas of virga are expected in the vicinity through the day, with conditions improving to “Scattered to broken skies around 8kft, clearing out during the day.” Similar gusty conditions are forecast across southern Nevada, northwest Arizona, and southeast California, particularly in north–south oriented valleys where winds may be strongest. Pilots operating in southern Mohave County and southeastern San Bernardino County should also be aware of the potential for afternoon showers, which are expected to taper off by the end of the day.
The National Weather Service is encouraging trained spotters and members of the public to report significant weather conditions through established reporting procedures, noting that such reports provide valuable ground-level information. Officials say the region is expected to experience changing winter conditions throughout the day.
