Extreme Heat Wave Hits Las Vegas This Week

Categories: Breaking NewsDisastersHealthNews

Residents of Las Vegas take precautions in the midst of a severe heat wave.

News Summary

Las Vegas is facing an extreme heat wave with temperatures projected to reach between 105° and 110° on Monday and Tuesday, leading to an Excessive Heat Warning. The warning applies to all of Southern Nevada as authorities caution residents about dangerous heat conditions throughout the week. Additionally, a recent fatal crash on Summerlin Parkway is under investigation, further complicating the circumstances. Residents are urged to stay hydrated and seek cooling stations as part of safety measures during this severe weather period.

Las Vegas is bracing for an extreme heat wave, with temperatures expected to soar between 105° and 110° on Monday and Tuesday, prompting authorities to issue an Excessive Heat Warning effective from 10 AM Monday until 10 PM Tuesday. The warning applies to all of Southern Nevada and surrounding counties, as a strengthening high-pressure system is forecasted to maintain elevated temperatures throughout the week. Adjustments have also been made in response to the deadly crash that occurred on Summerlin Parkway on Sunday night, where authorities are currently investigating the situation.

The fatal crash was reported around 9:48 PM on the eastbound side of Summerlin Parkway, just east of Durango Drive. The eastbound lane was closed for several hours as investigators worked at the scene. However, it has since reopened. Updates on the incident remain limited as authorities continue to gather details.

The weather forecast for Las Vegas is particularly alarming, with a heat index indicating temperatures could peak at 110° to 115° in areas like Mesquite and near Lake Mead, while the notorious Death Valley National Park could see staggering highs reaching 120° at Furnace Creek. Alongside the heat, gusty winds are anticipated, with speeds between 20 to 30 MPH, raising additional concerns for residents.

Officials are urging the community to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks when outdoors to prevent heat-related illnesses. The National Weather Service strongly recommends not leaving children or pets in parked vehicles since car interiors can heat up to dangerous levels very quickly.

Forecasts for the coming days show that temperatures in Las Vegas will maintain highs between 107° and 109° on Wednesday, with a slight drop to around 105° for Thursday and Friday before peaking again over the weekend. Overnight lows throughout the week are projected to be around 80°, providing little relief from the heat.

The UV index is expected to be classified as “very high,” indicating that individuals can experience sunburn in just 15 minutes without proper protection, making it crucial for those who engage in outdoor activities to take necessary precautions. Meanwhile, pollen levels are forecasted to be at “medium,” with predominant allergens including ragweed, grasses, and chenopods.

Air quality in Las Vegas is currently rated as “moderate,” attributed to elevated ozone levels, which could affect sensitive individuals. An heat alert covers the entire Mojave Desert, including the Colorado River Valley, as the excessive heat poses a risk for residents and visitors alike. In response, Clark County has activated cooling stations available to all community members, including those experiencing homelessness, to combat the rise in temperatures.

Historical data shows that Las Vegas recently recorded a record high of 105°, surpassing the previous record of 104° set in 2024. This recent spike followed an unusual weather event earlier in May 2025, when heavy rainfall contributed to the wettest May on record followed swiftly by soaring temperatures.

As the week progresses, residents are advised to remain vigilant during this extreme heat period while anticipating a cold front that is projected to bring about a temperature decrease of approximately 10 degrees, along with potential rain by Sunday night.