Today, Las Vegas is experiencing what could potentially be the hottest day in its weather history. The day started warm and is rapidly getting hotter. The morning low at Harry Reid International Airport, the official measuring station, was 88 degrees at 5:20 a.m. By 8:35 a.m., it had already risen to 100 degrees, and by 10:45 a.m., it climbed even further to 106 degrees.
According to National Weather Service meteorologist Sam Meltzer, the official forecast for the day is 117 degrees. There is a 25 percent chance of reaching 118 degrees, which would break the all-time heat record in Las Vegas.
As of 1:24 p.m., Las Vegas has already tied its daily heat record of 116 degrees and at 1:56 p.m., the official daily high became 117 degrees. This marks the sixth time in Las Vegas weather history that the temperature has reached this extreme level.
Meteorologist Ashley Nickerson mentioned that there is still at least 90 more minutes to go before the temperature peaks, as it did around 3:30 p.m. the previous day. Factors such as a southwest breeze and a high-pressure center moving inland from the California coast are contributing to the extreme heat.
Some members of the weather service decided to have a no-oven cookie baking contest in the office parking lot on South Decatur. The intense heat caused the parking lot to start melting.
It is essential for Las Vegas residents to understand the severity of these extreme temperatures. Meltzer emphasized the importance of staying indoors in air conditioning and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
The record high temperature in Las Vegas is 117 degrees, which has been recorded five times in the past. The last time the airport reached this temperature was on July 10, 2021. Other instances include June 20, 2017; June 30, 2013; July 19, 2005; and July 24, 1942.
Looking ahead, Meltzer mentioned that Monday’s official forecast is expected to be a degree or two cooler before another 117-degree day is forecasted for Tuesday. Over at Death Valley National Park, the visitor’s center recorded a scorching 128 degrees on Saturday.
Given the extreme heat, it is crucial for individuals to be prepared for heat-related illnesses such as cramps, exhaustion, and heat stroke. Knowing the signs and symptoms and being ready to provide assistance to potential victims is important.
Cooling stations are open during daytime hours at least through Wednesday to provide relief from the heat. This situation is still developing, so stay tuned for more updates on this record-breaking heatwave in Las Vegas.
