The climate of Las Vegas
Located in the state of
Nevada, USA,
Las Vegas falls under the Mid-latitude desert Köppen climate classification, also known as BWk, due to its geographical position within the Mojave Desert, one of the driest regions in North America. This predominant genre of climate recognizes the region's inclination towards scant, erratic rainfall and its propensity for high temperatures.
Throughout the year, Las Vegas embraces an extensive variation in thermal conditions. Daytime temperatures embark on a journey from a low average of 51.8°F (11°C) in
January to a scorching average of 97.3°F (36.3°C) in
July. The story of night temperatures unfolds similarly, starting at 38.5°F (3.6°C) in January and peaking at 77.7°F (25.4°C) in July. This manifestation of desert climate witnesses relative humidity ranging from a low level of 15% in
June to a peak of 48% in January, reflecting the region's overall dry nature.
Precipitation patterns in Las Vegas exhibit consistency with the desert climate type. Even though the elements of rainfall concentrate from 0.08" (2mm) in June to 0.87" (22mm) in July, this city witnesses days with rainfall from as low as 1.4 in June to a maximum of 8.3 in July. However, snowfall is a rare occurrence here, limited to slight amounts in January and
December.
Unique weather phenomena include the city's impressive sunlight and sky clarity. With sunlit days in the count of 27.3 in June and daylight hours peaking at 14.6 in June and July, Las Vegas boasts of radiant sunshine and extended light hours, particularly beneficial for potential visitors.
The best time to visit Las Vegas
Considering the factors such as temperature, sunshine hours, and precipitation, the most favoring time to visit
Las Vegas is Spring from
March to
May, and Autumn, from
September to
November. During the spring period, temperatures fluctuate from 64°F (17.8°C) to 80.6°F (27°C), making outdoor activities pleasant and enjoyable. Similarly, in the autumn months, the temperature resides between 74.3°F (23.5°C) in
October to 61.2°F (16.2°C) in November, without making too cold for visitors.
The worst time to visit Las Vegas
Amidst the sweltering summer months from
June to
August, daytime temperatures can soar up to 97.3°F (36.3°C) in
July. This period presents highest temperatures throughout the year, making it a less preferred time for tourism. The weather might be excessively hot and uncomfortable for many on outdoor exploration or activities. The high heat index, coupled with the least rainfall, validates this phase as the least favorable for a visit to
Las Vegas.
Spring weather in Las Vegas
The spring season in
Las Vegas exhibits the temperatures rising from 64°F (17.8°C) in
March to 80.6°F (27°C) by
May, while the night temperatures fluctuate from 47.8°F (8.8°C) to 61.7°F (16.5°C). This period welcomes diminished rainfall and increased daily sunshine hours, providing a balanced weather situation favorable for tourists and locals alike. The UV index during this period peaks at 7 in May, necessitating the use of protective measures against the sun.
Summer weather in Las Vegas
The summer months in
Las Vegas transcend from a high average temperature of 93.4°F (34.1°C) in
June to a scorching 97.3°F (36.3°C) in
July, before receding slightly to 95.9°F (35.5°C) in
August. Nights do not offer much solace from the heat, with temperatures lingering from 71.4°F (21.9°C) to 77.7°F (25.4°C), marking the zenith of hot weather. Minimum rainfall and maximum daylight hours, peaking at 14.6 hours in June, align with the characteristics of a desert climate.
Autumn weather in Las Vegas
A decrease in temperature marks the advent of autumn in
Las Vegas, with temperatures falling from 87.4°F (30.8°C) in
September to 61.2°F (16.2°C) by
November. The fall months offer a respite from the heat with cooler and comfortable weather. There is a minimal decrease in the duration of daily sunshine hours and a slight increase in rainfall at 0.47" (12mm) in both
October and November.
Winter weather in Las Vegas
Winter temperatures in
Las Vegas witness a significant dip with day temperatures fluctuating from 74.3°F (23.5°C) in
December to 51.8°F (11°C) in
February, and night temperatures tapering from 45.9°F (7.7°C) in
November to 37.9°F (3.3°C) in
January. Rainfall remains relatively consistent at 0.67" (17mm) in December tapering to a 0.55" (14mm) in February, while the sparse snowfall of 0.04" (1mm) occurs in January and December, a distinctive feature of this season.
Weather in January
Las Vegas greets the New Year with cool temperatures mostly hovering from 38.5°F (3.6°C) to 51.8°F (11°C). A continuation from late
December, expect cool but not freezing temperatures. The coldest month of the year in Las Vegas,
January often sees a mix of sunny and cloudy days.
Weather in January » Weather in February
Welcome
February with a slight increase in temperature, as cooler days give way to the promise of spring in
Las Vegas. February brings marginally warmer conditions than
January, but it remains a comfortable month for exploration.
Weather in February »Weather in March
March weather in
Las Vegas denotes the arrival of spring, with temperatures climbing from the chillier winter months. The warmer temperatures allow Las Vegas denizens to take advantage of a range of outdoor activities available in the area.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
Las Vegas in
April enjoys clear skies, mild temperatures, and low humidity, making it an ideal month for outdoor activities. As the days lengthen, the temperature continues to climb steadily, setting the stage for the extremely warm summer months ahead.
Weather in April » Weather in May
As summer begins to take hold in
May,
Las Vegas experiences significantly warmer temperatures. Positioned between spring and summer, May is beautifully clear with a significantly low chance of rainfall. With the increase in temperature, Las Vegas begins to sizzle not only from the heat but also from the steady march of activities.
Weather in May »Weather in June
Weather in
Las Vegas takes a noticeably hotter turn in
June, marking the onset of the dry summer season. With light rainfall and shining sun, the city looks straight out of a postcard. Bringing drastic changes in terms of temperature, June is a month when Las Vegas truly feels like a desert city.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the peak of summer in
Las Vegas, often recording the highest temperatures of the year. A typical desert summer month, the heat can become pretty intense, especially during the day. However, with its indoor air conditioning, Las Vegas ensures comfort despite the scorching sun.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August carries forward the heat from
July, with temperatures witnessing little to no drop in
Las Vegas. As summer continues in full swing, the temperatures might still be quite sizzling. Despite the high temperatures, Las Vegas’ attractions and entertainment scene do not simmer down.
Weather in August » Weather in September
In
September,
Las Vegas starts experiencing a decrease in temperature, shifting from full-blown summer to a more bearable range. As temperatures start to dip, Vegas sees a resurgence in outdoor activities. The departure of intense summer heat also means hiking and golf are back on the menu.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in
Las Vegas signals the commencement of fall, with a more pronounced decrease in temperatures. Transitioning from the hot summer months, October experiences pleasant days and cool nights. The dip in temperature brings back the outdoor hustle, as locals and tourists relish the weather.
Weather in October » Weather in November
In
November,
Las Vegas experiences a considerable drop in temperature, leading into the winter season. Progressing from the fall season, November paves the path to winter with crisp temperatures. The ambiance of festive cheer begins to creep in as Thanksgiving approaches.
Weather in November »Weather in December
December in
Las Vegas heralds the onset of winter with the return of cooler temperatures. Mimicking weather conditions similar to
January, December sees the mercury drop again. This month offers a unique blend of holiday spirit alongside the lively Las Vegas charm.
Weather in December »