Weather Update: Las Vegas Stays Calm Amidst U.S. Winter Storms
If you turn on the television today, you may see dramatic footage of the mammoth winter storm that is paralyzing large parts of the U.S. However, in stark contrast, Las Vegas is poised for a much quieter weekend. This article delves into what residents can expect while the rest of the country faces an onslaught of winter weather.
As the storm rages across many regions, conditions in Southern Nevada will be relatively mild. According to Matt Woods from the National Weather Service, today will bring slightly cooler temperatures and windy conditions. The forecast high sits at a pleasant 60 degrees, with only a 5-15 percent chance of light rain or mountain snow in the vicinity. This makes it an ideal day for those who prefer to dodge the natural drama happening outside of Las Vegas.
Winds That Command Attention
It’s essential to stay alert for the winds today, which will be coming from the north at speeds reaching 20-30 mph. Woods emphasizes that the winds will peak in the late morning and early afternoon, although a wind advisory is not expected—a relief for those enjoying outdoor activities. However, these strong winds will create choppy conditions on local lakes, generating 1-to 3-foot waves. Safety precautions should be taken for boating and other water activities during this blustery period.
Looking Ahead to Sunday
Forecasts for Sunday indicate a continuation of dry conditions, albeit with increasing cloud cover. Temperatures are expected to dip into the mid-50s, with winds from the north at a slightly calmer 10-15 mph. This translates to conditions ideal for a leisurely day in the valley, although water enthusiasts may notice calmer conditions on area lakes compared to Saturday.
Dry January in the Valley
This January began with a wet spell, but has since transitioned into an unusually dry month. Harry Reid International Airport has reported a meager 0.14 inches of rainfall so far—far below the normal of 0.56 inches, with most of that recorded on New Year’s Day. Such changes in weather patterns aren’t entirely novel for Las Vegas; the same dry conditions prevailed in January 2025.
During that year, the valley experienced abundant sunshine while receiving no rainfall until February 13, when a measurable 0.57 inches fell, breaking a remarkable 214-day streak without measurable rain. Interestingly, despite a dry start, 2025 concluded as the wettest year in Las Vegas since 2019, demonstrating the unpredictability of weather patterns in the region.
Stay Informed
For those looking to keep tabs on weather conditions, staying informed is crucial. Updates from local news sources and meteorological services can provide essential information for navigating plans and maximizing outdoor enjoyment. Feel free to reach out to weather experts like Mark Davis for further insights or clarifications about what’s happening in the skies above.
To learn more, contact Mark Davis at mdavis@reviewjournal.com.