Friday, May 23 – Las Vegas, Nevada – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Lake Wind Advisory for Lake Mead and Lake Mohave, warning of potentially dangerous conditions for boaters and outdoor visitors. The advisory is in place until 7 p.m. Friday and highlights the risk of gusty winds, choppy waters, and waves that could impact boating activities heading into the Memorial Day weekend.
Strong winds and rough waters expected
The NWS forecast indicates winds ranging from 20 to 25 miles per hour, with gusts reaching up to 35 mph. These conditions are expected to produce waves between 1 and 3 feet, particularly hazardous for small watercraft. The agency urged those planning lake activities to exercise caution, especially as the weekend begins.
“Strong winds and rough waves on area lakes will create hazardous conditions for small craft,” the NWS stated. “Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.”
Lake Mead’s critical importance and heavy usage
Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States, supplies water to more than 25 million people and is a major recreational destination. According to the National Park Service, over 35,000 boaters use Lake Mead and Lake Mohave each year, making safety during this advisory particularly crucial.
Southwest to sizzle, East and Midwest to cool down
Elsewhere across the country, the Southwest is bracing for extreme heat, with desert temperatures expected to exceed 100°F (38°C). California’s interior valleys could see highs in the 90s°F (32–37°C).
In contrast, the eastern and central United States face a cooler, wetter pattern. The Northeast is under a storm system, bringing showers and significantly lower temperatures. Frost is even possible by Sunday morning in parts of Pennsylvania and upstate New York, should skies clear and winds die down overnight.
NWS Las Vegas cautions early weekend boaters
The Las Vegas NWS office posted on X (formerly Twitter) Thursday:
“Getting an early start to the holiday weekend out on the lakes? If so, be careful out there! A Lake Wind Advisory is in effect for Lakes Mead and Mohave where gusty winds will result in choppy waves Friday afternoon and early evening. Stay aware and stay safe!”
Safety tips from the NWS
Boaters are reminded to monitor lake conditions, wear life jackets at all times, and plan ahead to ensure safety amid unpredictable weather patterns. With the wind advisory remaining active through Friday evening, visitors are urged to remain vigilant and cautious during any time on or near the water.
