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Forecasters warn of high winds, possible snow

The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning for the Las Vegas Valley through Thursday evening.

The forecast also calls for cooler temperatures, rain and possible snow showers Thursday.

Forecasters said the higher elevations of Summerlin and Henderson could see some snow flurries.

The weather service issued a winter storm warning for the Spring Mountains, including Mount Charleston, and the Sheep Mountains. Forecasters are predicting 7 to 14 inches of snow above 4,500 feet and up to an inch of snow at the Red Rock National Conservation Area Visitor Center, around Searchlight and along Nipton Road.

The high temperature at the official weather station at McCarran International Airport is expected to reach 54 degrees today with overnight lows in the high 30s.

"We aren't used to winter weather in our region, so it's a good time to remind our residents to keep some safety tips in mind when it comes to adjusting to cold weather and venturing into the mountains if there's snow," Irene Navis, manager of Clark County's Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security said in a statement.

She issued a list of tips that ranged from dressing warmly and driving more slowly to protecting pipes from freezing by letting faucets drip a little and wrapping them in insulation, such as layers of newspaper.

Forecasters said a cold front pushing south across the southern Great Basin toward the Mojave Desert will be followed by strong northwest to north winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts of 45 to 65 mph tonight. Stronger winds are possible on the north side of the valley where winds get enhanced by nearby mountains.

Strong winds may blown down trees and power lines and cause property damage, NWS officials said. The winds could create difficult travel conditions with reduced visibility and blowing objects. Drivers of motorcycles, vans, campers and other high-profile vehicles should use extra caution. Boaters in the wind advisory area should use extreme caution or avoid venturing onto area lakes.

The weather service warned homeowners to secure trash cans, Christmas decorations and outdoor furniture.

A dust advisory has been issued through Thursday evening.

Clark County officials are advising residents to be aware of blowing dust due to high winds, expected to reach 25 mph to 35 mph with gusts up to 55 mph, according to the National Weather Service.

Unhealthy levels of dust were not occurring Wednesday morning.

Airborne dust is a form of air pollution, which aggravates respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma.

Officials advise children, the elderly and people with respiratory diseases to stay indoors during dust storms.

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