Honestly, everyone thinks Las Vegas is just a giant heat lamp 24/7. It’s the desert, right? But if you’re heading to the Strip this week, you’re in for a bit of a surprise. We are looking at a weather window starting Friday, January 16, 2026, that is actually... kinda perfect?
I've seen people step off a plane at Harry Reid International in January wearing nothing but a tank top and immediately regret every life choice as that dry, 40-degree wind hits them. Don't be that person. While we're seeing some beautiful highs this week, the desert doesn't play favorites when the sun goes down.
What’s Actually Happening: The 5 Day Weather Forecast for Las Vegas Nevada
Basically, we are entering a stretch of "Chamber of Commerce" weather, but with a few mood swings from the clouds.
Friday, January 16 is the standout. We're hitting a high of 71°F. That is a solid 14 degrees above the typical January average of 57°F. It’s going to be sunny with a light breeze coming out of the northwest at about 7 mph. If you’re planning on hitting a poolside lounge—even if you don't actually get in the water—this is your day. Just keep in mind it’ll drop to 47°F at night.
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Saturday, January 17 cools off just a touch. Expect a high of 68°F. The day stays sunny, but the night introduces some "mostly cloudy" vibes and a low of 42°F.
Sunday, January 18 is when the sky gets a little indecisive. It’s going to be mostly cloudy during the day with a high of 65°F. There is a tiny 10% chance of rain, which in Vegas usually means three drops on your windshield and a lot of dust. The wind stays dead calm, around 2 mph from the east.
Monday, January 19 and Tuesday, January 20 see the return of the bright stuff. Monday jumps back up to 69°F, and Tuesday sits comfortably at 66°F. Both nights are going to hover right around 42°F or 43°F. It’s consistent, dry, and honestly, pretty great for walking the four miles between casinos without melting into the sidewalk.
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The Layers Rule (Or Why You Need a Jacket)
You’ve gotta realize that a 71-degree day and a 42-degree night feel like two different planets.
In the sun, that 71°F feels like 80°F because the UV index is still sitting at a 3. You’ll be comfortable in a t-shirt. But the second you step into the shadow of a massive resort like the Caesars Palace or the Wynn, the temperature effectively "drops" ten degrees.
And once the sun dips behind the Spring Mountains? Forget it. You’ll want a denim jacket or a light puffer. Most visitors get caught off guard because the humidity is sitting at a bone-dry 19% to 25% this week. Dry air loses heat fast.
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Is This "Normal" Vegas Winter?
Not really. Usually, January is the coldest month of the year here. We're currently trending about 10 degrees warmer than the historical averages reported by the National Weather Service.
According to data from the local climatological reports, the average high for mid-January is usually 57°F to 59°F. Seeing 71°F on Friday is a treat. It's the kind of weather that makes locals go for a hike at Red Rock Canyon before the "real" heat returns in May.
Practical Survival Tips for This Week
- Hydrate or Die: Okay, maybe not die, but you’ll get a massive headache. With humidity down to 19% on Saturday, you are losing moisture just by breathing. Drink twice as much water as you think you need, especially if you're hitting the casino floor cocktails.
- Sunscreen is Real: A UV index of 3 doesn't sound like much, but at this altitude and with zero cloud cover on Monday/Tuesday, you will burn if you’re outside for a long lunch.
- The Wind Factor: Friday has the "strongest" wind at 7 mph. That’s barely a rustle in the palm trees. It’s an elite week for golf or outdoor dining.
Actionable Next Steps
- Pack for Two Seasons: Toss a medium-weight jacket in your suitcase. You'll need it for any walk after 5:00 PM when the desert chill sets in.
- Book Outdoor Activities for Friday: Since it's the warmest day of the forecast at 71°F, Friday is the day for the Neon Museum boneyard tour or a stroll through the Fremont Street Experience.
- Monitor the Sunday Clouds: If you’re planning a photo shoot or a trip to the Grand Canyon, be aware that Sunday’s cloud cover might mess with your "golden hour" lighting, though the 10% rain chance is negligible.