High winds expected to last through most of Saturday
The high winds that blew through the Las Vegas Valley on Friday will continue to cause problems Saturday, according to the National Weather Service.
Friday saw wind speeds of 47 mph recorded at McCarran International Airport, National Weather Service meteorologist John Salmen said.
A wind advisory is in effect until 5 p.m. Saturday, with wind speeds still expected to reach 20 to 30 mph and gusts up to 45 mph.
Because of expected high winds, Clark County Department of Air Quality officials are advising residents and local construction site operators of the chance for blowing dust from Friday morning through Saturday afternoon.
Airborne dust, or particulate matter, aggravates respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma, the statement said.
Officials recommend these tips for keeping dust down:
- Drive slowly on unpaved roads.
- Don’t take shortcuts across vacant lots.
- Ride off-road vehicles in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
- Limit outdoor exertion on windy days with dust is in the air. Exercise makes you breathe heavier and increases the amount of particulates you are likely to inhale.
- Keep windows closed. Run your air conditioner inside your house and car to filter out particulates.
- Consider changing your indoor air filters if they are dirty.
Friday saw a high of 70 degrees, Salmen said. No rain was recorded in the valley, he said.
Saturday is expected to be warmer with a high of 77 degrees.
Sunday should see mostly sunny skies with a high of 80 degrees. Monday’s high is expected to be 82 degrees, with temperatures climbing to 91 on Wednesday, Salmen said. After that, temperatures are expected to cool slightly, he said.
Review-Journal reporter Christian Bertolaccini contributed to this story. Contact Raven Jackson at rjackson@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0381. Follow her on Twitter @ravenmjackson.
