Can any regular visitors to Vegas tell me what type of weather to expect in early January (New year), as I have heard different opinions and not sure what clothing to pack
I was there last January, from about the 4th until the 10th. It was sunny, high in the 50's to 60's. I was able to walk the strip in jeans and light windbreaker. As soon as the sun went down it was very chilly, even the windbreaker wasn't enough if I stood outside for any lenth of time (like watching the Bellagio fountains). Didn't encounter any snow; like I said, it was sunny.
I've been there many times in mid December to mid February and the default is cold. Snow is rare but nights in the 30's or even 20's are not. Daytime 50's, sometimes 40's. 60's are much more infrequent. Think layers and mixing and matching.
but a week later it only go a high in tweentys .so it can vary alot. be preparede for very cold and be happy if its in the 50's
Lucky you, I am a weather forecaster for the National Weather Service. The weather for Vegas in the winter can vary greatly from day to day. For the most part the conditions are clear and cool. A frontal system will brush through the area every 5 to 7 days which will increase sky cover and precipitation chances. Every now and then, the system will be strong enough for a few flurries, or an inch or so. I would recommend that you go to http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/vef/. They have a nice climate section for a general aspect of the weather for any time of the year. As you get closer to your arrival time, the 7 day forecast from the NWS is the best there is (patting self on back) As a note, due to the Government shutdown, some of the longer range products may not be available.
http://www.weather.com/weather/wxclimatology/daily/USNV0049?climoMonth=1 I usually find this site easier to use....maybe I'm just internet ignorant Although....I have no problems finding porn:evillaugh Looks like your averages will have you in the 40's and 50's but you could get a banner year and hit 70 or get not so lucky and hit 15:confused2:
Have been in Vegas Jan. 1 - 5 for the last 3 years. It really depends on who you ask. We are from Nebraska and have already experienced our first blizzard of the year. We found the weather to be very pleasant, because we know what we could be experiencing. The temps. were in the 50s in the day, but became rather chilly in the evening. We wore light sweaters, with a vest on top. That worked for us, but we saw everything from t-shirts to people wearing winter coats with gloves and mittens. HTHs
Maybe you won't want to pack a swimsuit or shorts, but should pack a variety of clothing. From my own experience I would go with lighter clothing: - Its easier to wear in layers where if you are too cold you can add a layer, too hot and you can remove one. - If its chilly outside then just go inside, use cabs to get around and don't be walking up and down The Strip - It can be nice and sunny (mid 50s to low 60s) during the day but then be cold and windy at night so its hard to dress for the whole day - The casinos are kept at a constant temperature where during the summer months when you go inside it can feel really cold, but in the winter months it can feel stifling and hot inside the casinos... so if all you have is heavy clothes and fleece lined this and wool that you might find the casinos unbearable during the winter months. And I have to agree with what Reen1962 says where it can be all about who you ask: I remember my first trip to Las Vegas in late December and it got up to about 57-58 degrees during the day... me, I was wishing I had packed some more t-shirts and a pair of shorts, at the same time there were people walking The Strip all bundled up in parkas, gloves and scarves that still looked like they were freezing cold.
I always bring layers for December trip. You can't go wrong that way. That's pretty much how we dress in New England except when we have a bad Nor'easter during the Winter.
High 40s to 60s. On a good day, in the 70s. On a bad day, in the high 30s. Could be misty light rain, which makes it even colder. Could just be sunny. Take a coat. Do not plan on spending much time outside at night. Such as, going to the clubs that have stuff outside. Inside the casinos and shows, dry and 70. Take cash and a light jacket. Sportsbooks can be crazy with NFL Football. All outside pools are usually heated by the SUN, so if you think a pool is a great idea, check the water temp first. Many of the pools are shutdown at this time for maintenance anyway, but some can be open.
I have been there many times for NYE and the weather varies greatly. One year I was on the Strip several days in a tee shirt and jeans during the day with 40s at night . Another year it was cold and snow flurries a couple times on the golf course. Check the forecast several days before you go. As other people said, layers are a good idea.