Lake Mead Warning Issued to Parents and Pet Owners

Newsweek

16 hours ago

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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The National Weather Service (NWS) issued an extreme heat warning for the Lake Mead National Recreation Area and surrounding regions, with forecast temperatures expected to reach as high as 115 degrees Fahrenheit this weekend.
Officials specifically advised parents and pet owners of the potentially hazardous conditions, highlighting the dangers of leaving children and animals in unattended vehicles and recommending extra caution during outdoor activities.
Why It Matters
Heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke, rise significantly during events like the one impacting Lake Mead this weekend, according to the National Weather Service. The agency emphasized that car interiors can reach deadly temperatures within minutes, intensifying risks for children and pets.
A car passes a sign warning of extreme heat danger on the eve of a day that could set a new world heat record in Death Valley National Park on July 15, 2023 near Furnace...
A car passes a sign warning of extreme heat danger on the eve of a day that could set a new world heat record in Death Valley National Park on July 15, 2023 near Furnace Creek, California. MoreWhat To Know
The warning applies to the Lake Mead National Recreation Area and adjoining locations in southern Nevada, southeastern California, as well as western and southern Arizona. Highs were expected between 110 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit near Lake Mead on Sunday, according to a bulletin published by the National Weather Service Las Vegas office on Friday.
The service warned that these were "dangerously hot conditions for early June."
Elsewhere, the agency forecast high temperatures ranging from 107 to 112 F in Las Vegas, Moapa, Pahrump, Barstow and the Morongo Basin.
In Laughlin, Bullhead City, Lake Mohave and Lake Havasu City, highs of 110 to 115 were also expected.
Death Valley National Park could see temperatures up to 120 F, the agency said.
"Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles," the NWS warned. "Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in minutes."
What People Are Saying
The NWS's extreme heat warning read: "Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke."
NWS meteorologist Andrew Gorelow, who works at the Las Vegas office, told Newsweek previously: "By middle summer around here, people are well acclimated to the heat, but since it is early season, people are not acclimated quite yet."
The NWS said on X: "During hot and humid weather, your body's ability to cool itself is challenged in ways you may not expect. When your body heats too rapidly, or when too much fluid or salt is lost through dehydration or sweating, you may experience a heat-related illness. Stay Weather-Ready by learning the symptoms of Extreme Heat exposure and the appropriate responses."
What Happens Next
At the time of writing, the extreme heat warning for the Lake Mead area was set to remain in effect until 10 p.m. on Sunday.
The NWS issues forecast updates regularly on its website.