Las Vegas, NV— The temperature at Harry Reid International Airport reached 100 degrees at 1:07 p.m. on Friday, marking the first time this year that the century mark has been hit. Earlier in the day, the thermometer recorded 99 degrees at 12:35 p.m. and remained steady until the temperature climbed to 100.

This milestone unofficially signals the start of the summer heat in the Las Vegas Valley. Officials had already warned residents about the dangers of the impending heat earlier this week, offering advice on how to stay safe and cool during the hotter months.

Last year, it took until June 30 for the temperature at the Las Vegas airport to hit 100 degrees, setting a record for the latest occurrence of the century mark. The average date for reaching this temperature is May 24, with the earliest on record being May 1, 1947. Once the heat arrived last year, it remained well above normal, with a stretch in July labeled as the hottest two weeks in Las Vegas weather history by the local National Weather Service office.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Climate Prediction Center (CPC) has forecasted a 50 to 60 percent chance of a “warmer than average summer” for June, July, and August in Las Vegas and much of the western United States. This forecast, released on Thursday, suggests that Las Vegas will not be alone in experiencing higher-than-normal temperatures.

“For the most part, the majority of the country shows a good chance of above-normal temperatures this summer,” said Johnna Infanti, a meteorologist with the CPC. Most areas of the country are expected to see above-average summer temperatures, except for the upper Midwest, including the Dakotas and parts of Nebraska and Iowa. The Pacific Coast portion of Alaska is forecasted to have below-average chances of normal summer temperatures.

As residents brace for the summer heat, officials continue to emphasize the importance of taking precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses and stay hydrated.

Credits: Review Journal