Las Vegas Weather Update: Gradual Cooling and Potential for Gusty Winds Across Southern Nevada

For now, Las Vegas residents can expect a gradual cooling trend, with the possibility of breezy conditions and isolated showers later.Photo byJoshua MichaelsonUnsplash

LAS VEGAS – The National Weather Service has issued a weather forecast indicating quiet conditions in the Las Vegas area, with gradually cooling temperatures expected through the weekend and into early next week. Residents can anticipate a potential more substantial cooldown later in the week, accompanied by gusty winds and slight chances of precipitation, although details remain uncertain at this time.

Current Weather Conditions

A shortwave trough currently positioned over southwest Oregon and northern California is expected to shift eastward tonight, gradually moving south-southeast across southern Nevada, southern Utah, and Arizona. As atmospheric heights decrease, temperatures will continue to drop by a few degrees each day through Monday and Tuesday. Fortunately, the weather system is not anticipated to bring significant winds or precipitation to the Las Vegas area, with any possible showers likely occurring east of the trough, primarily over higher terrain in Utah.

Upcoming Weather Patterns

As the shortwave trough exits, a more pronounced longwave trough will approach the region by mid to late week. Meteorological models show some uncertainty regarding the forecast for late in the week, particularly on Friday and Saturday. The Global Ensemble Forecast System (GEFS) suggests a slower and deeper trough that could potentially develop a closed low around the Four Corners region, while the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) ensemble maintains an open and more progressive trough.

Winds and Precipitation

If the GEFS solution holds true, Las Vegas may experience breezy to locally windy conditions from the south-southwest on Wednesday and Thursday, with a stronger post-frontal northerly wind pattern anticipated for Friday and Saturday. This scenario could lead to a more significant drop in temperatures and a slight chance of showers, particularly in parts of Lincoln County and far eastern Clark and Mohave Counties. Conversely, the ECMWF solution suggests a drier forecast with weaker northerly winds and less cooling.

Looking Ahead

As the week progresses, meteorologists will closely monitor the evolving weather patterns to refine forecasts and enhance confidence in predictions for the weekend. For now, Las Vegas residents can expect a gradual cooling trend, with the possibility of breezy conditions and isolated showers later in the week.