News Summary
The Las Vegas Valley is anticipating significant thunderstorms and rain after a long heat wave. The National Weather Service has issued forecasts indicating a high chance of rain, with prior records showing minimal rainfall this summer. Local officials address weather concerns and celebrate new legislation promoting economic growth in the region as residents prepare for this pivotal weather shift.
Las Vegas – The Las Vegas Valley is set to experience significant thunderstorms and severe weather following a prolonged heat wave. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a forecast predicting a 70 percent chance of rain today for the valley and an 80 percent chance for nearby mountains. This change in weather comes after the valley has recorded no measurable rain since mid-July, with the forecasted high for today reaching 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Harry Reid International Airport last experienced measurable rainfall on May 6, 2025, with the total annual rainfall thus far at 2.05 inches, slightly under the average of 2.27 inches. A typical year in Las Vegas sees around 4.18 inches of rain. The average rainfall for August at the airport is only 0.34 inches, making any rain this week a welcome change for residents.
The weather forecast for the next two days shows a continued pattern of potential thunderstorms. On Wednesday, the expected high will be 94 degrees with a 50 percent chance of rain, increasing to 70 percent for mountain areas.
While rain has largely evaded the valley this summer, there have been several isolated rain events this year. Key incidents include thunderstorms on July 18 and July 2, the latter of which caused a dust storm and significant power outages across the region. Other notable weather occurrences included showers in June and a rare May storm that shattered rain records, alongside reports of strong winds and light rain from earlier this year.
The dramatic shift in the weather comes on the heels of a four-day extreme heat warning that has contributed to temperatures being projected at 5 to 10 degrees above normal. In response, Clark County activated cooling stations to provide relief for residents enduring the high temperatures. This heat warning is set to remain in effect until 11 p.m. Saturday.
Compounding weather concerns, a smoke alert has been issued for the Las Vegas Valley due to ongoing wildfires in California, which has raised air quality issues. Residents are advised to take precautionary measures to minimize exposure to smoke.
Additionally, local officials in North Las Vegas recently celebrated the passage of the Apex Area Technical Correction Act, which aims to foster economic growth in the region. This new legislation simplifies the permitting process for basic utilities and infrastructure, promoting the expansion of new and existing businesses. Local leaders believe this will help create thousands of new jobs and stimulate economic activity following the enduring impacts of the heat wave.
Looking forward, forecasts also indicate the possibility of a La Niña pattern developing over the Pacific Ocean this winter, though its potential impact on weather in Las Vegas remains uncertain.
In summary, the Las Vegas Valley anticipates a significant weather shift today after months of excessive heat and minimal rainfall. The forecasts of thunderstorms and rain, combined with legislative efforts aimed at boosting the local economy, reveal a pivotal moment for residents and officials alike as they navigate these changing conditions.
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Additional Resources
- Review Journal: It May Be a Wet Day in Las Vegas as Monsoon Storms Arrive
- Wikipedia: Las Vegas
- 8 News Now: Severe Storms Move Across Las Vegas Valley
- Google Search: Las Vegas Weather News
- Fox 5 Vegas: First Alert – Storms Possible Las Vegas Through Friday
- Google Scholar: Las Vegas Weather Patterns
- KTNV: Active Weather Hits Las Vegas
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Las Vegas Weather
- Review Journal: Las Vegas Says Goodbye to Extreme Heat as Monsoon Storms Return
- Google News: Las Vegas Monsoon Storms
Author: STAFF HERE LAS VEGAS WRITER
LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER The LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELasVegas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Las Vegas, Clark County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Electric Daisy Carnival, World Series of Poker, and Consumer Electronics Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Three Square Food Bank, plus leading businesses in hospitality and entertainment that power the local economy such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Nevada's dynamic landscape.
