You're heading to the Strip, suitcase packed, expecting that desert sun to do all the heavy lifting. People think "desert" and immediately think "heat." Honestly? That is a mistake that leaves a lot of tourists shivering at the Bellagio fountains every January. The weather forecast for las vegas this weekend is looking pretty decent, but it's not exactly poolside weather unless you're at one of those specifically heated spots like Stadium Swim at Circa.
Currently, we are looking at a stretch of high pressure that's keeping things dry, but a "weak shortwave" is dropping in from the Rockies. That basically means the wind is going to be a factor. If you're out on Saturday, January 24th, or Sunday, January 25th, you need to know that the "feels like" temperature is going to be your real boss.
The Saturday Breakdown: Sunshine With a Side of Clouds
Saturday is shaping up to be the better of the two days for outdoor walking. We are looking at a high of about 60°F.
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That sounds warm if you're coming from Chicago, but it's "desert warm," which is different. The air is thin and dry. When the sun dips behind a building, the temperature feels like it drops ten degrees instantly. Afternoon clouds are expected to roll in late in the day, which will cut that solar warmth even more.
The humidity is sitting around 26%, which is actually high for us. It won't feel muggy, but it might feel a bit more "damp" than the usual crisp Vegas air. Wind speeds are looking low—around 2 mph—so you won't have to fight a gale while walking between Caesars and The Flamingo.
What to actually wear on Saturday
Skip the heavy parka, but don't you dare leave the hotel in just a t-shirt.
- A light leather jacket or a denim jacket is perfect.
- Comfortable walking shoes. The Strip is longer than it looks.
- Sunglasses are non-negotiable. Even with clouds, the glare off the glass buildings is brutal.
Sunday’s Shift: Why the Wind Matters
Sunday, January 25th, is when things get a little weird. The high is actually going to be warmer—climbing up to 66°F—but it's going to be a "grey" day. We’re looking at overcast skies for most of the morning and afternoon.
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More importantly, the wind is picking up. We’re expecting northerly gusts. While it’s not a full-blown wind advisory level yet, the National Weather Service is watching a pattern shift. Usually, when a ridge deamplifies like this, you get those "canyon winds" between the big resorts.
If you have brunch plans at an outdoor terrace like Mon Ami Gabi, maybe ask for a table near a heater. Seriously.
The Nightlife Factor: Desert Nights Are No Joke
This is where the weather forecast for las vegas this weekend gets tricky for the clubbing crowd. Once the sun goes down around 5:00 PM, the temperature is going to plummet.
We are looking at overnight lows near 46°F.
If you are standing in a line outside a club on Fremont Street or at a Strip resort, that 46 degrees feels much colder when you aren't moving. Las Vegas in January is the land of the "coat check" for a reason. Don't be the person shivering in a cocktail dress at 2 AM while waiting for an Uber. It’s a rookie move.
Weekend Temperature Outlook
| Day | High | Low | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday | 60°F | 46°F | Mostly sunny, late clouds |
| Sunday | 66°F | 46°F | Overcast and breezy |
Surprising Details Most People Miss
One thing people never check is the UV Index. Even in January, and even when it's 60 degrees, the UV index is around a 3 (moderate). You can still get a sunburn if you’re out hiking Red Rock Canyon for four hours.
Speaking of Red Rock, if you’re planning to leave the city limits, subtract about 5-8 degrees from the forecast. The elevation change matters. If it's 60 at the Wynn, it's 52 at the trailhead.
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Also, we’re technically in the "rainy" part of the year. January averages about three days of rain for the whole month. While the chance of rain this weekend is low (around 4-6%), the humidity jump on Sunday suggests some moisture is hanging around. It probably won't rain, but the air will feel "heavy."
Actionable Tips for Your Vegas Weekend
- Check the Wind: If you see the palm trees leaning hard, stay indoors. The wind "tunnels" on the Strip can be genuinely exhausting to walk through.
- Layering is King: Wear a hoodie or a light sweater under a jacket. The casinos are usually cranked to 72°F, but the walk between them is 50°F. Your body will thank you.
- Hydrate: It's cold, so you won't feel thirsty, but the desert air is literally sucking the moisture out of your skin. Drink a water for every cocktail.
- The "Stadium Swim" Rule: If you want to swim, go to Circa. Their pools are heated to nearly 100 degrees. Most other hotel pools are either closed for the season or will feel like an ice bath.
- Timing Your Walk: Saturday between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM is your "golden window" for the most comfortable outdoor temps.
The weather forecast for las vegas this weekend is essentially a "classic" January weekend. It’s mild, it’s dry, and it’s perfect for anything that doesn't involve a bikini. Just keep an eye on that Sunday cloud cover and the evening chill, and you'll be fine. Pack for a cool autumn day, not a summer vacation, and you won't be one of the people buying a $85 "I Love Vegas" sweatshirt just because you're freezing.