Get ready for the heat: 2014’s first 100-degree forecast is Friday
Another year, another round of 100-degree days.
While it may come as no huge surprise — it is the desert, after all — Las Vegas’ first triple-digit temperatures forecasts for 2014 are in. On Friday and Saturday, the mercury will hit the century mark, according to the National Weather Service.
The valley’s first 100-degree usually falls around May 26, so this year it will come more than a week early.
“Last year it occurred on May 13, so it’s kind of similar timing,” Chris Outler, forecaster at the National Weather Service in Las Vegas, said Thursday.
A high pressure ridge shifting to Southern Nevada from California is to blame for the heat, Outler said.
The triple-digit temperatures will be temporary, though. The ridge will continue moving east, and temperatures will drop starting Sunday.
“In the valley, temperatures will be cooling off into the 80s by Monday and remain there pretty much for the entire week,” Outler said.
For those who take delight in the high heat, not to worry: It will come back soon enough.
“We will very likely be seeing triple digits in temperature again by the end of the month,” Outler said.
In other weather-related news, the Nevada Division of Forestry on Thursday announced the start of fire restrictions in recreational areas around the valley, including Big Bend, the Spring Mountains and Valley of Fire. Campfires using wood is prohibited — so bring your camping stove and propane instead, or charcoal if you’re in a designated picnic area.
Smoking outside of vehicles and driving off-road are also prohibited. No firework shows allowed, no welding torches or other fire-creating instruments, and adventurers are now required to carry at least one gallon of water with them in remote areas.
Penalties for breaking the rules: a $1,000 fine or 6 months in jail.
Contact reporter Maria Agreda at magreda@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0391. Find her on Twitter: @mjfagre. Contact reporter Annalise Porter at aporter@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0391.
