Heat to subside as rain chances enter the valley

Higher than normal temperatures have been in place over the valley during the last week, but a cool-down, and possibly some precipitation, is on the way.

Today will mark the last day of a three-day excessive heat warning for Pahrump and surrounding areas. The warning originally went into effect at 8 a.m. Wednesday morning and was set to expire Thursday at 11 p.m., before the National Weather Service extended it one more day.

The high temperature has been around the 111 degrees expected today over the past three days, which prompted the warning, which expires this evening at 8 p.m.

High temperatures will begin to decrease steadily over the weekend and chances of thunderstorms return to the area beginning today.

“The high pressure system is forecast to shift a little bit east so the hottest part is no longer over us,” said John Salmen, National Weather Service meteorologist. “Also, we’re going to be increasing cloud cover and thunderstorm chances, all of it will blend together to decrease those temperatures.”

There is a 10 percent chance of thunderstorms today, bumping up to a 20 percent chance Saturday through Monday.

There are no major winds expected through the next week, but if a thunderstorm pops up in the area, gusty winds could occur.

“Really not looking at too much in the way of regular wind,” Salmen said. “They will probably be tied more to outflow from any thunderstorms and that will also drive where these storms develop, too. If a storm develops and kicks off an outflow from the mountain, that could potentially give Pahrump a thunderstorm there, too.”

High temperatures over the next week will top out today at 111 degrees, with the coolest high temperature occurring Wednesday, where the mercury will reach 102 degrees.

Overnight lows will be warm, ranging from between 80 degrees tonight, to 75 degrees Wednesday evening.

With the excessive heat warning in place, the National Weather Service recommends drinking plenty of liquids, being in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible, avoiding exposure or strenuous physical activity, and taking frequent breaks if you’re working outside. Avoiding caffeinated and alcoholic beverages is also recommended.

Residents are also urged to check on relatives and neighbors, especially the elderly and those with children. Also, the weather service warns to never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle under any circumstances.

Contact reporter Mick Akers at makers@pvtimes.com. Follow @mickakers on Twitter.