On Wednesday, Las Vegas will start clear and mild near 61°F with gusty south winds in the mid-20s mph. Skies will become cloudier through the day, with a slight chance of isolated rain showers before 4 p.m., mainly over surrounding higher terrain. The afternoon high will reach around 70°F, cooling to the upper 60s late in the day and dropping to about 47°F overnight under partly cloudy skies.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
South winds will ramp up through the morning and into the afternoon, with sustained speeds of about 6 to 14 mph and gusts roughly 21 to 25 mph across much of the valley. Gusts could be stronger in the usual wind-prone corridors and passes. A Lake Wind Advisory is in effect for Lake Mead and Lake Mohave, where southerly winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts to 35 mph will create hazardous conditions for small boats, according to the National Weather Service.
Spotty Showers Mostly Over Higher Terrain
This afternoon carries only a slight chance of light rain, around 20 percent, mainly over the eastern Mojave and nearby mountains. Most valley outdoor plans should be in good shape. Any brief sprinkles that do develop could trim visibility near higher terrain, but meaningful rainfall over downtown remains unlikely.
Weekend Outlook
After today, expect a short break on Saturday before a stronger system lines up late this weekend into next week. That next round looks set to bring cooler temperatures and increased mountain precipitation, including snow at higher elevations. The National Weather Service forecast discussion still flags some uncertainty in timing and amounts, but confidence is growing in a shift toward a colder, more unsettled pattern next week. For context on the recent mild stretch, see our look at the warm spell ahead.
Plan For The Commute
Before heading out, secure loose outdoor items so they do not get tossed around in the gusts. Drivers should be ready for windy conditions on elevated ramps and bridges during the afternoon commute, and high-profile vehicles in particular should use extra caution. Boaters are advised to keep small craft off Lake Mead through this evening and check for the latest local updates before venturing out.
