textproduct: Elko

KEY MESSAGES

* Record breaking heat returns to northern and central NV this weekend

* Change in weather pattern means the return of precipitation to the region next week

UPDATE

Issued at 125 AM PDT Fri Mar 27 2026

The current forecast remains on track. No significant updates were required.

DISCUSSION

(This afternoon through next Thursday)

WEATHER PATTERN OVERVIEW: In the near term, the high pressure system that has been firmly entrenched over the SW CONUS will slowly meander and deamplify through late week. Zonal flow aloft in its broad northwestern quadrant is expected through the weekend. A tighter pressure gradient in said flow will begin to relax on today and winds will be lighter this afternoon with gusts mostly around 20 mph or less.

Lower level flow will turn south-southwesterly in the western flank of the retreating HPC over the weekend. This will again drive high temperatures up into the upper 70s and 80s across northern and central NV threatening high temperature records at multiple climate sites Saturday and Sunday.

By Sunday night the weather pattern over the SW CONUS will shift as the HPC to the east-southeast releases its firm grip on the region. This will allow a progressive wave pattern to set up with the first of 2 ULTs pushing into the Great Basin by Monday PM. Noticeable cloud cover begins Monday as southwesterly winds and moisture increase from northwest to southeast across the area as the system encroaches. Current long range model guidance has been consistent with Tuesday being the wettest day for the area in the form of valley rain/mountain snow. Snow levels will stay above 7000 feet with the first wave making it a mainly rain event. After the first wave and associated boundary passage late Tuesday the second wave will impact the region Wednesday night into Thursday. Current guidance keeps better moisture over northern NV than central NV with this system and snow levels are currently much lower behind the Thursday system boundary. Current guidance is less consistent with the second system and will require future model runs for better clarity on timing and amounts of precipitation.

FORECAST CONFIDENCE & DEVIATIONS: High confidence continues for record breaking heat this weekend. Low confidence in precipitation timing and amounts associated with progressive wave pattern next week. No major changes are needed in grids at this time.

AVIATION

VFR conditions are expected at all terminals thru Saturday morning. Winds will be lighter with occasional gusts around 20 mph across the area this afternoon.

LKN Watches/Warnings/Advisories

None.