The National Weather Service in Las Vegas has set the scene for a warm, sunny week ahead with above-normal temperatures and clear skies. As per the latest update from the early morning hours, Las Vegans can anticipate persistent northerly winds especially along the Colorado River Valley, which seem to be the only notable weather feature to keep an eye out for in the near term.
The folks over at NWS Las Vegas have indicated high pressure is to firmly grip the Great Basin, meaning that the pressure gradients will be kept up to unusually maintain northerly winds. The overall dry and mild conditions are on account of a deep trough over the eastern part of the country and a robust ridging across the western states. Looking forward, a slight shift is expected towards the end of the week with a low pressure system moving into the West Coast, which could, albeit modestly, increase cloud cover in the area. According to the NWS forecast, "Temperatures will remain above seasonal normals regardless of the outcome."
For aviation interests, the forecast promises predictable conditions. The NWS anticipates "Winds will generally follow typical daily directional patterns," but notes an increase to approximately 8-10KT of northeasterly winds through this afternoon for Harry Reid International. VFR conditions are to prevail, with only some mid-level to high clouds passing through. The rest of southern Nevada, northwest Arizona and southeast California can significant expect gusts, particularly through the Colorado River Valley, where speeds of 25-35KT could occur around KIFP, and up to 20-25KT near KEED this afternoon.
Additionally, the NWS encourages local weather spotters to stay vigilant and report "any significant weather or impacts" as per usual protocols. With the week set out to be uneventfully pleasant for the most part, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the extended period of warmth, whilst keeping an eye out for the possible, albeit small, deviations forecasted for the weekend.
