Seema Khaneja MD
Updated on: October 8, 2024 2:19 am GMT
Hazy Skies and High Temperatures Affecting Las Vegas This Weekend
Las Vegas is experiencing hazy skies and excessive heat, with a high of 106°F expected on Friday, September 29, 2023, due to wildfire smoke drifting into the region. A Wildfire Smoke Advisory is currently in effect across Clark County, urging sensitive individuals to minimize outdoor exposure. The Excessive Heat Warning will remain in place until 8:00 PM Friday evening, amid overall above-normal temperature trends for the area.
Current Weather Conditions
The weather this Thursday in Las Vegas is characterized by hazy sunshine, as regional wildfire smoke has impacted air quality. Temperatures are projected to reach 107°F, approximately 8°F above the seasonal average for late September. Winds are expected to pick up slightly from the northeast at 10-15 mph, with gusts potentially reaching up to 25 mph.
The Excessive Heat Warning emphasizes the need for precautions during this period of elevated temperatures. Areas at or below 3,500 feet may see high temperatures ranging from 104°F to 111°F, while the Colorado River Valley is at risk for even higher temperatures between 111°F and 115°F. Death Valley could reach extremes of 116°F to 120°F. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, keep pets indoors, and ensure air conditioning systems are functioning optimally. It is also crucial to never leave children or animals in hot vehicles.
Air Quality Concerns
As smoke from ongoing wildfires in Oregon and Idaho blankets Southern Nevada, air quality is rated as ‘moderate’ but is expected to worsen due to the increasing smoke concentrations. Individuals sensitive to air quality issues are urged to take precautionary measures and monitor local air quality updates for changes.
Evening temperatures will drop to about 82°F, but scattered clouds and haze are expected to persist. After midnight, winds are anticipated to decrease gradually.
Weekend Weather and Rain Chances
As the weekend approaches, the weather forecast indicates a potential shift. Monsoonal moisture is expected to sweep into Southern Nevada, particularly on Saturday and Sunday, presenting opportunities for showers and isolated thunderstorms. The highest chances for precipitation will likely occur in the mountainous areas, with a 10% to 20% chance of rain in the Las Vegas valley and Henderson areas.
High temperatures are projected to decline slightly over the weekend, with Sunday’s maximum temperatures anticipated to range from the low 100s to the upper 90s in western regions of the valley. Conditions are expected to remain above normal for the upcoming week, with forecasted highs between 102°F and 104°F. Winds are projected to pick up again on Wednesday, which may lead to a further decrease in temperatures, possibly entering the double-digits as next weekend approaches.
Record Global Heat Impacting Local Weather
These local weather conditions occur against a backdrop of unprecedented global heat. This past summer, identified by Copernicus, the European climate change service, recorded its hottest period since records began in 1940, surpassing previous highs set just last year. Summertime temperatures between June and August were 0.69 degrees Celsius above the 1991–2020 average.
Scientists emphasize that the combination of human-induced factors, such as greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels, and natural climate phenomena like El Niño are driving these extreme temperature records. This summer, particularly marked by extreme heat, wildfires, and severe storms globally, underscores the urgency for initiatives aimed at reducing emissions and addressing climate change.
While the El Niño phenomenon, which exacerbated heat conditions, came to an end in June, its effects linger, contributing to the high temperatures currently being experienced. Experts warn that unless urgent and substantial action is taken to curb greenhouse gas emissions, similar weather patterns are likely to intensify in the future, further threatening both local communities and the planet.
People living in Las Vegas and Southern Nevada should stay alert about the weather changes. It’s important to keep an eye on updates and take steps to protect their health and well-being because of the ongoing heat and air quality issues.
