You’re probably looking at your suitcase right now and thinking about that classic desert heat. It’s Vegas, right? Short sleeves and shades. Honestly, if you pack like it’s mid-July, you’re going to have a rough time.
The weather in Vegas next week is shaping up to be a bit of a curveball for anyone expecting a scorching getaway. We’re looking at a stretch of days that are undeniably beautiful—crystal clear skies and plenty of that famous Nevada sun—but with a bite in the air that’ll catch you off guard the second you step out of the Bellagio.
The Real Forecast for January 14–21
Don't let the "sunny" icons on your app fool you into thinking it's pool season. While the high for Wednesday, January 14, is hitting a surprisingly balmy 72°F, that’s the peak of the week. After that, we see a slow slide. By Saturday, January 17, those highs dip to about 68°F.
Now, 68°F sounds decent for a stroll down the Strip. And it is! But here’s the kicker: the desert cools off fast. Like, really fast.
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Every single night next week, the temperature is plummeting into the 40s. We’re talking lows of 46°F tonight and hitting 43°F by the weekend. If you’re planning on catching the Fountains of Bellagio or walking from Caesars to the Venetian after dinner, that 25-degree drop is going to feel like a slap in the face if you’re only wearing a t-shirt.
Humidity and the "Dry Chill"
People always talk about the "dry heat," but nobody warns you about the "dry chill." Humidity is hovering between 21% and 35% all week.
Why does that matter?
In high-humidity places, the air holds onto heat. In Vegas, especially in January, there's nothing to trap that warmth. The moment the sun ducks behind the mountains—which happens earlier than you think this time of year—the temperature falls off a cliff.
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Wind speeds are mostly low, staying around 2 to 6 mph from the north and west. That’s good news. It means you won't have a freezing gale whipping through the concrete canyons of the Strip, but even a 5 mph breeze at 44°F can make it feel significantly colder than the thermometer says.
What to Actually Pack (The Local Secret)
If you want to look like a local and actually stay comfortable, the secret is "The Vegas Layer."
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- The Daytime Base: A long-sleeve cotton shirt or a heavy t-shirt. You’ll be fine in this from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM while the sun is doing its thing.
- The Casino Factor: Remember that every casino is cranked to a steady 70°F year-round. You’ll be sweating in a parka inside but shivering in a tank top outside. A lightweight merino wool sweater or a stylish bomber jacket is your best friend here.
- The Evening Essential: You need a real coat. Not a "San Diego" hoodie, but a legitimate jacket. If you’re doing Fremont Street, the wind can tunnel through there, so something windproof is a huge plus.
Misconceptions About January Rain
Is it going to rain? Probably not.
The chance of precipitation for most of next week is basically 0%. Saturday night has a tiny 5% blip on the radar, but that’s barely enough to spot your windshield. Vegas averages only about two or three rainy days in the entire month of January. You’re much more likely to deal with dry skin and chapped lips than an umbrella.
Actionable Advice for Your Trip
- Hydrate more than you think. The low humidity (21%) will dehydrate you faster than the summer heat because you don't feel yourself sweating. Drink water between those cocktails.
- Sunscreen is still mandatory. The UV index is sitting at a 3 next week. It’s "moderate," but the desert sun at high altitude is deceptive. 20 minutes at an outdoor lunch can still give you a pink nose.
- Check the sunset time. Usually, around 4:45 PM to 5:00 PM, the "golden hour" ends and the temperature begins its rapid descent. Plan your wardrobe changes for 4:30 PM.
- Footwear matters. You’ll likely walk 5–10 miles a day without realizing it. Wear broken-in Chelsea boots or stylish sneakers. Avoid open-toed shoes; your feet will be freezing by 6:00 PM.
The weather in Vegas next week is perfect for sightseeing and hiking at Red Rock Canyon, provided you respect the desert's rules. Enjoy the sun, but keep that jacket within arm's reach.