Las Vegas is soaking up sunshine Thursday, with temperatures climbing through the 70s and a high near 81°F. Skies stay clear through midday, but the calm will not last long. Winds are set to crank up later today, and a cold front arriving late tonight will flip the breeze and bring a noticeable cooldown. If you have evening plans on the water or need to travel on exposed ramps, it might be worth shifting those plans earlier.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
South-southwest winds around 10 to 15 mph this afternoon will turn gusty, with gusts commonly in the 20 to 30 mph range while daytime highs top out near 81°F. Late tonight, a cold front will swing winds around to the north-northwest, with stronger gusts following behind it, with 30 to 40 mph gusts expected across much of the valley and even stronger, potentially damaging winds funneling down the Colorado River Valley. The National Weather Service is warning that gusts over 50 mph are likely along the river corridor, with isolated 60-mph gusts possible around Laughlin and Bullhead City, and a Wind Advisory in place for parts of the region, according to NWS Las Vegas.
Boating And Road Impacts
The strongest gusts and terrain-enhanced northerly winds will make for rough conditions on area lakes. Lakes Mead, Mohave and Havasu could see choppy waters and waves in the 3 to 5 foot range, creating hazardous boating conditions. On land, drivers of high-profile vehicles should be extra cautious on I-15, exposed ramps and mountain passes. Homeowners are also being urged to tie down patio furniture and secure loose items to keep them from becoming airborne. For a look back at the recent breezy pattern across the valley, see how Vegas on edge as winds whip up dust.
Weekend Outlook
Once the cold front pushes through, high pressure will rebuild over the weekend, bringing lighter winds and a quick warmup. Overnight lows will settle in the 50s, with highs rebounding into the low 80s on Saturday, then climbing toward the upper 80s to around 90°F early next week. After Friday, the pattern looks dry and mostly sunny as the breezes ease, according to NWS Las Vegas.
