When you visit Las Vegas, there is a very high chance that you’ll experience sun and clear skies. For the majority of the year, this is the standard weather in Las Vegas. It’s pretty safe to say you don’t need to pack your winter parka or rain jacket.
However, the city receives an average of 4.1 inches of rain annually, but this isn’t your average rain. Dealing with rain in Sin City is unlike rain you might experience elsewhere. Due to its location in the desert, Las Vegas is prone to flash floods and dangerous road conditions when it rains. If you happen to get caught in the rain while you are visiting Las Vegas, keep the following things in mind:
Do not drive across flooded roads. Water is a powerful force, and even six inches of water can displace a vehicle. In addition, when you can’t see the roadway itself, it is hard to know whether the road has been washed away or if there are any obstacles you don’t know about hidden by the water. Look for an alternate route to reach your destination.
Do not walk in flood plains or drainage ditches. Because it is located in the desert, Las Vegas was built with several flood plains and drainage ditches running throughout it. Flash floods can happen quickly, so you should never walk in flood control areas if there is any sign of questionable weather.
Roads are slick. Just as other areas of the United States experience slick conditions from ice and snow, Las Vegas’ roads can become slippery in the rain because of oil residue on the pavement that collects between rainfalls. Turn lanes, areas near stoplights and bridges are particularly dangerous. Drive with caution and leave plenty of space between your car and the car in front of you.
Be careful in hallways and crossing bridges. There is a lot of foot traffic on the Las Vegas Strip. Stay safe by wiping your feet when you enter a building, and be careful as you walk along sidewalks, across bridges and in other areas where water may have pooled.
Cross the street at crosswalks. This should go without saying at any time, but it is especially dangerous for pedestrians to dart out in front of cars during rainy conditions. Drivers are paying attention to the vehicles around them and trying to maintain control of their cars in potentially hazardous conditions. Stay safe and cross in crosswalks and only when it is safe to do so.
Photo credit: digablesoul
