Reno, Nevada – Spring 2026 could trend significantly warmer and drier across Nevada, limiting late-season mountain snow and raising early wildfire concerns before summer arrives.
According to NOAA’s Seasonal Temperature and Precipitation Outlook released February 19, Nevada is favored to see above normal temperatures combined with below normal precipitation during March-April-May 2026. The strongest warmth probabilities are centered across the Desert Southwest, placing much of the Silver State in a heat-leaning pattern through late spring.
In Las Vegas and southern Nevada, that could translate into more frequent 80- and 90-degree afternoons as early as April, with triple-digit heat possible before the end of May. Limited rainfall may dry out desert fuels quickly, elevating fire weather risks during windy periods.
Northern Nevada, including Reno, Carson City and Elko, may see fewer late-season snow opportunities in the Sierra and Ruby Mountains. Warmer daytime highs could accelerate snowmelt, reducing additional snowpack gains and increasing early runoff into regional reservoirs.
Across rural stretches of U.S. Highway 95 and Interstate 80, dry and windy afternoons may also raise blowing dust concerns if precipitation remains sparse.
Overall, Nevada appears poised for a warmer and drier-than-average spring. Residents should prepare for early heat spikes, reduced mountain snowfall and heightened wildfire risk through May as the state transitions toward summer.
