Isolated Thunderstorms and Rising Heat Expected in Southern Nevada and Mohave County

In addition to the storm activity, the incoming low-pressure system will tighten pressure gradients across the region.Photo byJeremy ThomasonUnsplash

The National Weather Service in Las Vegas has issued a forecast indicating that isolated showers and thunderstorms will return to Mohave County, Arizona, and the higher terrain of Southern Nevada this afternoon. The thunderstorms, similar to those observed yesterday, will result in dry lightning and gusty winds, particularly in areas like Esmeralda, Southern Nye, and Lincoln counties.

The primary cause of these weather conditions is a closed low-pressure system moving into the California coast, which is expected to bring mid-level moisture into the southwestern Great Basin. However, the lower levels of the atmosphere are not sufficiently saturated, leading to a heightened risk of dry lightning, which could potentially spark wildfires. The High-Resolution Ensemble Forecast (HREF) indicates a 70% chance of thunderstorm-related wind gusts exceeding 35 mph in far northern Esmeralda County, with 20-40% chances across the rest of the county.

In addition to the storm activity, the incoming low-pressure system will tighten pressure gradients across the region, increasing southerly wind gusts this afternoon. While these gusts are not expected to meet Red Flag criteria, fire danger is likely to rise in Esmeralda and Southern Nye counties due to the increased winds.

Looking ahead to Tuesday, the shortwave forcing and moisture responsible for today's storms are expected to diminish, leading to a significant drop in precipitation chances. However, temperatures will continue to climb throughout the week, prompting the National Weather Service to consider issuing an Excessive Heat Watch later in the week.