Pahrump nearly eclipses hottest June on record

With Las Vegas experiencing its hottest June on record last month, Pahrump came close to breaking a record of its own.

The mean average daily temperature for June 2015 in Pahrump was 82.53 degrees, which was the second hottest June on record according to the National Weather Service. This was just behind the all-time hottest June on record in 1960 that saw a mean average daily temperature of 82.58.

The mean average is made up of the daily low and high temperature of each day. The average daily mean temperature for Pahrump in June is 78.7 degrees.

Las Vegas saw a higher average temperature of 91.9 degrees last month, which beat the previous record of 91.5 set in June 2013.

The hottest day in Pahrump during June was 113 that occurred on June 20, which was a record historic high temperature for that day. The coolest temperature observed was a low of 67 degrees that was recorded on June 6. The highest daily temperature that has ever occurred in Pahrump during June took place on June 30, 2013 when a daily high temperature of 117 was recorded.

The higher-than-average temperatures can be attributed to a long period of high pressure over the Western United States. Also contributing to the higher than normal temperatures is something called the “heat island” effect, which is when the asphalt and concrete absorb heat during the day and release it at night.

Fourth of July weekend is expected to be near normal temperatures, with daily highs around 103 degrees and lows around 80 degrees, with partly cloudy skies. A less active weather system is forecasted to move into the area, diminishing the chances of precipitation.

“We’re not expecting excessive heat fortunately,” said Jim Harrison, meteorologist with the National Weather Service said. “It looks like somewhat drier air is going to move in, so we’re not forecasting any thunderstorms this weekend for Pahrump.”

Although highs are going to be around normal daytime highs, those who will be outdoors enjoying the Independence Day weekend festivities should take precautions.

“It’s still going to be hot, it is July,” Harrison said. “Drink plenty of water and use sunscreen if you’re going to be outside.”

The weather service also recommends limiting use of alcoholic and caffeinated beverages; wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing; and wearing a shirt and hat at all times.

Homeless, the elderly, children and those who already have health issues are the most at-risk during peak hours of the day.

Do not leave children or pets in cars, as even leaving them in a hot car for a few minutes could prove to be hazardous or even fatal.