Las Vegas woke up Thursday to clear skies and a mild 64°F at local observation sites, a calm start ahead of what will be a warm, dry day. Highs are expected to climb to around 89°F, with south-southwest breezes that will ramp up later in the afternoon.
Afternoon Gusts Pick Up
South-southwest winds will strengthen through the afternoon, generally running 5 to 18 mph with gusts up to about 25 mph and locally higher across exposed stretches and open desert. According to the National Weather Service Las Vegas, gusty southwesterly winds are expected today and tomorrow, and pockets of stronger gusts are possible. Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items, and drivers of high-profile vehicles should be ready for occasional cross-wind trouble on open stretches of highway.
Weekend Cooling And Shower Chance
A pattern change will usher cooler air into the region this weekend, with the best chance for scattered showers and a few thunderstorms on Sunday and daytime highs dropping into the upper 60s. Our earlier coverage flagged the incoming cutoff low, and you can revisit how Vegas baked into the 80s to start the week. Where storms do form, expect brief downpours, lightning, and gusty outflow winds, especially over higher terrain.
How To Plan
Try to time outdoor errands for the cooler morning or evening hours, and lock down patio furniture, tarps, and other lightweight items before the afternoon breeze really kicks in. Drivers of RVs, trucks, and vehicles towing trailers should use extra caution on exposed roads, and boaters should be ready for choppy water on area lakes. Keep an eye on local forecasts and weather alerts through the day so the changing conditions do not catch you off guard.
