A powerful surge of monsoonal moisture hit southern Nevada on Tuesday, causing significant disruptions in the Las Vegas Valley. The storm brought strong winds, with gusts reaching near hurricane levels, leading to downed trees, power lines, and even a fire that resulted in the loss of several animals.
The National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Clark County around 3:30 p.m. local time. This warning alerted residents to the potential for damage from the developing storm cells. Meteorologists later identified the cause of the damage as “virga bombs” or “dry microbursts.” These are intense downdrafts that occur when rain evaporates before reaching the ground, causing cool air to rush down violently, resulting in strong wind gusts.
At Harry Reid International Airport, wind gusts were recorded at 60 mph, while some areas around Henderson experienced gusts of at least 70 mph. The intense winds led to widespread power outages, affecting over 30,000 customers according to NV Energy, the state’s largest electricity provider. Crews were deployed to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.
The storm also generated a dust storm that swept across much of the valley, significantly reducing visibility and impacting air quality. Residents and tourists on the Las Vegas Strip witnessed the event, with thick plumes of dust blanketing the skyline. The National Weather Service warned that dust storms can create dangerous driving conditions, advising drivers to pull off the road and turn off their lights if caught in one.
In addition to the power outages and reduced visibility, the strong winds likely contributed to a fire on the northeast side of town. The Clark County Fire Department reported that several farm animals were killed in the blaze, but thankfully, no human fatalities were reported.
As the region moves further into the monsoon season, the National Weather Service expects more localized storms that may bring heavier rainfall and potential flooding. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for future weather events as the season progresses.