Las Vegas wakes up clear and mild on Friday, April 10, with temperatures hovering around 72°F and a high expected near 85°F. By this afternoon, though, southwest winds will ramp up and stay gusty into the evening, kicking up choppy lake conditions and creating pesky crosswind hazards on exposed stretches of road.
Afternoon Gusts Take Over
A Wind Advisory is in effect from noon through 11 p.m. Friday for parts of the western Mojave Desert, Morongo Basin, southwestern Great Basin and the Owens Valley, and a Lake Wind Advisory covers the Lake Mead National Recreation Area this afternoon and evening, according to the National Weather Service Las Vegas.
In the Las Vegas Valley, south-southwest winds are expected to run about 10-18 mph, with gusts to around 25 mph. Exposed passes and ridgelines could see stronger gusts into the 30s. On the water, Lake Mohave may see 1-3 foot waves, while Lake Mead could see 1-2 foot waves as the afternoon breeze turns into more of a sustained blow.
Boaters And Drivers On Alert
Boaters and small-craft operators are urged to avoid exposed launches this afternoon and evening, as casual lake outings are likely to be uncomfortable at best and potentially dangerous once the waves pick up. On land, drivers of trailers and other high-profile vehicles should be extra cautious on I-15, U.S.-95 and through exposed mountain passes where gusty crosswinds can make steering a hands-on adventure.
Weekend System Moves In
A low pressure system arrives Sunday, April 12, bringing a better shot at unsettled weather. Scattered showers become possible after late morning, with a high near 73°F and a roughly 30% chance of rain. Isolated showers may hang on into Monday.
Higher terrain will feel the system a bit more. The eastern Sierra, especially above about 8,000 feet, could see light snowfall totaling 3-7 inches through Sunday evening, according to the NWS Area Forecast Discussion.
What To Pack And Prep
If you are headed outdoors this afternoon, secure loose patio furniture and strap down canopies before the gusts arrive. Sunglasses and a light windproof layer will make errands and outdoor dining a lot more pleasant…