Nevada – The desert looks calm at sunrise, but dark clouds loom just beyond the horizon. Wet pavement and rising humidity signal a sharp shift for southern Nevada as a significant rain event moves in.
Las Vegas starts the morning dry and mild, near the low 50s. That quiet won’t last. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch beginning late tonight and lasting through late Wednesday night. Meteorologists are tracking a strong Pacific system that will pull deep moisture across the Mojave Desert.
Rain becomes more widespread Wednesday morning and intensifies through the afternoon. Some areas could see steady, soaking rainfall for hours. Poor drainage spots, washes, and low-lying roads may flood quickly. Urban flooding is possible, especially near underpasses and construction zones. Drivers along I-15, US-95, and surface streets should plan for reduced visibility and standing water.
Christmas Day stays wet. Rain remains likely through the morning and into the afternoon, keeping roads slick during holiday travel. Gusty winds may accompany heavier showers, pushing water across roadways faster than usual. While snow is not expected in the Las Vegas Valley, higher elevations surrounding the region could see wintry impacts.
Thursday offers only a brief break. Showers remain possible, and the ground stays saturated. By Friday, another round of rain develops, extending travel concerns into post-Christmas plans. Wet roads Friday morning could slow departures, especially for drivers heading toward California or Arizona.
Temperatures stay mild for late December, mostly in the 60s, but that warmth adds to runoff concerns. Flooding can occur far from where rain actually falls, especially near washes and desert channels.
Plan extra travel time, avoid driving through flooded roads, and stay alert for updates. Conditions may change quickly. Traveling for Christmas or after? What are you seeing on the roads right now?
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Las Vegas, Nevada
- Today: Mostly cloudy, high near 64
- Wednesday: Heavy rain likely, flooding possible, high near 65
- Christmas Day: Rain likely, windy at times, high near 67
- Thursday: Chance of rain, cooler late, high near 61
- Friday: Rain likely again, slick roads, high near 61
