Las Vegas woke up to clear skies on Wednesday morning, May 20, with temperatures sitting in the mid-60s and very dry air. That cool start will not last. The valley is set to warm fast, with an afternoon high near 88°F today, then a steep climb into the mid and upper 90s by the Memorial Day weekend. If you are planning barbecues, pool time, or hiking for the holiday, try to shift the big outings to mornings or evenings and come armed with water and shade.
Afternoon And Holiday Heat
Forecasters at the National Weather Service Las Vegas expect highs to peak near 95°F on Thursday and Friday, then push to about 98°F from Saturday through Memorial Day Monday. In the office's forecast discussion, meteorologists say the warming trend will hold through the long weekend under mostly sunny skies and dry conditions. Those numbers run several degrees hotter than a typical late May day in the valley, and the early morning hours will bring the only meaningful cooldown.
Heat Risk And Cooling Options
The same forecast discussion highlights a Minor heat risk for most of the Las Vegas Valley this weekend, with pockets of Moderate risk in some of the lower desert stretches, including the Colorado River and Moapa valleys. Clark County keeps a roster of daytime cooling stations and library respite locations for anyone who needs a break from the heat, so be sure to check the county's list for specific sites and hours. If you or someone you care for is especially vulnerable to hot weather, it is worth planning ahead to avoid strenuous outdoor time during the peak afternoon heat.
Winds And River Travel
Across most neighborhoods, winds should stay on the tame side, generally in the 5 to 10 mph range. The story changes along the Colorado River corridor, where gusty north winds could kick up this afternoon, with bursts of about 25 to 30 mph at times. That can mean choppier water for boaters and a higher chance that unsecured canopies, umbrellas, and other gear take flight. Flights and highway travel are expected to run mostly smoothly, though occasional gusts could jolt high-profile vehicles in the more exposed stretches.
Plan Ahead
Hydrate early and often, wear sunscreen, and, when you can, move heavy yard work, workouts, or outdoor fun into the early morning or the cooler late evening hours. Check the Clark County cooling station list or call 2-1-1 for local cooling help, and give the latest forecast a once-over before you head out. For a broader look at this run of warm weather, see how Vegas sizzles as a 105°F heat wave bakes the valley.
