So, you're looking at the Strip and wondering if you actually need that heavy coat or if a hoodie will cut it. Honestly, Vegas weather in January is a bit of a tease. One minute you're soaking up the desert sun, and the next, a breeze kicks up and you're shivering. If you want the quick answer to what's the weather right now in Las Vegas Nevada, it’s a crisp 68°F.
That sounds pretty warm if you’re coming from Chicago, but don't let the number fool you. It's sunny and clear at the moment, but the humidity is sitting at a bone-dry 13%. That lack of moisture means the air doesn't hold onto heat very well. As soon as that sun dips behind the Red Rock mountains, things change fast.
What's the weather right now in Las Vegas Nevada?
Right now, it's actually quite pleasant for a Saturday afternoon. We've got a northeast wind coming in at about 9 mph—not enough to ruin a hair day, but enough to notice if you're standing in the shade. The UV index is basically zero, so you won't be fried, but it’s still bright enough to need those aviators.
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The high for today is maxing out right where we are at 68°F, which is actually a bit warmer than the typical January average. Usually, we're lucky to hit 58 or 60. Tonight, though, the clouds are going to roll in. We're looking at a low of 43°F, and there’s even a tiny 10% chance of a stray raindrop. It probably won't happen, but in the desert, we always hope for it.
The "Dry Heat" is actually "Dry Cold" in Winter
People talk about the dry heat all summer, but the dry cold is what catches tourists off guard. Because the air is so thin and dry, your skin loses heat faster. You'll see locals in North Las Vegas or Summerlin wearing light puffer jackets while tourists are still trying to make shorts work.
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- Current Temp: 68°F
- Wind: 9 mph (Northeast)
- Sky: Sunny
- Humidity: 13%
Why the forecast matters for your Strip walk
If you’re planning to walk from the Bellagio to Caesars Palace, keep in mind that the wind tunnels between the massive resorts can make 68 degrees feel like 58. The northeast wind we're seeing right now tends to whistle through the corridors of the high-rises. It’s "light jacket" weather, but keep the layers accessible.
Is this normal for mid-January?
Kinda. While 68°F is on the higher end, January is historically our coldest month. Usually, you’d expect highs around 57°F and lows that occasionally flirt with the freezing mark at 39°F. We're having a particularly mild day today.
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Back in 2025, we had some weird swings, and the 2026 season seems to be following suit. The National Weather Service in Las Vegas has been tracking these mild patterns, and while it's great for walking the Strip, it’s not exactly "pool weather." Speaking of pools, most of them are closed anyway, or at least the ones that aren't heated to the temperature of a bathtub.
Survival Tips for Vegas Right Now
Basically, you've gotta be a layering pro. Start with a t-shirt, add a flannel or light sweater, and have a windbreaker or denim jacket ready.
Drink more water than you think you need. Even though it's not 110 degrees, that 13% humidity will zap the moisture right out of you. Your lips will chap before you even reach the first slot machine.
Next Steps for your Vegas trip:
- Check the wind speeds before heading to a rooftop bar like Skyfall or Foundation Room; anything over 15 mph makes it chilly up there.
- Pack a heavy moisturizer and lip balm to combat the low humidity.
- Plan your outdoor sightseeing (like the Neon Museum or Red Rock) for between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM to catch the peak warmth.