Las Vegas is feeling the heat this week as a scorching heat wave grips the West. Temperatures at the Las Vegas airport soared to 100 degrees by mid-morning Wednesday and are expected to climb even higher, potentially reaching 108 degrees – just one degree shy of the record for June 5th.

The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning that will remain in effect from Wednesday through Friday evening.

Record-Breaking Heat Expected

The hottest day appears to be Thursday, with forecasts predicting Las Vegas reaching near 112 degrees. Surrounding areas are expected to fare even worse, with Death Valley National Park anticipating a scorching 121 degrees.

The relentless heat has forced some local events to adjust plans. The Las Vegas free farmers’ market, originally scheduled for an outdoor park, has been relocated to the Doolittle Active Adult Center to protect attendees from the extreme temperatures.

Weekend Relief Not Yet in Sight

While Thursday might be the peak, scorching temperatures are expected to persist over the weekend. Las Vegas highs will only dip slightly to the low 100s on Saturday and Sunday, with overnight lows offering little relief, remaining in the low 80s. Some comfort may come early next week, with forecasts predicting a slight drop into the upper 70s for overnight lows.

A Repeat of Last Year’s Brutal Summer?

Meteorologists warn that this early heat wave bears a concerning resemblance to last year’s historic summer. In 2023, Las Vegas didn’t experience its first 100-degree day until late June, before July went on to become the hottest month ever recorded in the city’s history.

“We’ve had a relatively cool spring, and this sudden jump to 110 degrees could catch people off guard,” explains meteorologist Andy Gorelow. “It’s eerily similar to what happened last year.”

While the intense heat wave is expected to ease slightly over the weekend, high temperatures are predicted to remain above 100 degrees in Las Vegas through at least Tuesday of next week. Residents and visitors are urged to take precautions to stay safe in the extreme heat.

Source: Review Journal