Las Vegas Weather: Best Heat Beating Tips!
Introduction
In this post I will discuss some of the way to beat the summer heat in Las Vegas.
If you visit Las Vegas in the summer it will be hot, no doubt about it. Fortunately most of Las Vegas’ entertainment is indoors but often people venture outside for souvenirs, to move to another casino, or take transportation. In this post I’ll explore some of the way to “win” against the Las Vegas summer heat.
In 2022, 165 heat-related deaths were reported in Las Vegas. This represents nearly 10% of all heat related deaths in the US according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Beat the Las Vegas heat infrographic
Stay Hydrated:
Obviously the first tip it to stay hydrated. In hot, dry weather, it's crucial to stay adequately hydrated to prevent dehydration and other heat-related illnesses. While individual hydration needs can vary based on factors such as age, weight, activity level, and overall health, a general guideline is to aim for about 8-10 cups (64-80 ounces) of water per day for adults in moderate conditions.
However, in hot and dry weather, such as the climate in Las Vegas, people may need to increase their fluid intake to compensate for the higher rate of sweat evaporation and potential for dehydration.
It's recommended to drink at least an additional 1-2 cups (8-16 ounces) of water for every hour of outdoor activity in hot, dry conditions.
If you're spending time outdoors or indulging in alcoholic beverages, be extra cautious and drink even more water. Alcohol consumption in Las Vegas is high and people do not realize that drinking makes dehydration faster and worse. It actually causes you to lose more body fluid.
Also avoid very cold drinks like frozen margaritas even though they may seem tempting because they can cause stomach cramps. Consider carrying a refillable water bottle and refilling it regularly to stay hydrated wherever you go.
Seek Shade:
When you’re moving about Las Vegas, whether waiting for an Uber or walking to another casino, try to stand in the shade as much as possible. This will reduce your risk of overheating some. Look for shaded area such as covered patios, umbrellas, or trees. Take advantage of the monorail system or air-conditioned walkways that bring you from casino to casino.
Dress Appropriately:
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing in light colors that reflect sunlight rather than absorb heat.
Opt for loose-fitting garments that allow air circulation and help keep your body cool.
Don't forget to protect your head and face with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun's rays.
Plan Indoor Activities:
Take advantage of Las Vegas's many indoor attractions, such as casinos, shopping malls, museums, and entertainment venues, to escape the heat during the hottest parts of the day. The peak heat is usually from 3 pm to 5 pm in the afternoon. Often Vegas is even more fun after dark and when the heat of the afternoon has subsided. But be careful because often it can still be well over 90F/32C well into the evening
Consider scheduling outdoor activities, such as sightseeing or hiking, during the cooler mornings or evenings when temperatures are more comfortable.
Use Cooling Products:
Carry a portable fan, handheld misting fan, or cooling towel to help lower your body temperature when outdoors.
Apply sunscreen with a high SPF regularly to protect your skin from sunburn and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Pace Yourself:
Avoid overexertion and strenuous activities during extreme heat, especially if you're not acclimated to hot weather.
Take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces to rest and recharge, particularly if you start to feel fatigued or lightheaded.
Monitor Your Health:
Pay attention to your body's signals and recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Seek medical attention if you experience dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, or other concerning symptoms, as these could indicate a serious heat-related emergency.
Death Valley
My last piece of advice, don’t bother going to Death Valley. I know it sounds “cool” to experience probably the hottest temperatures of your life but it truly isn’t worth the risk. If you really want to see Death Valley (which you should), go in the cooler months when it’s safer. It’s a novelty to experience such heat but the novelty quickly wears off when you’ve been out in it too long. Many people get very sick or even die in Death Valley just to get the experience.
Conclusion
People who are not used to the extreme heat of the desert are often caught off guard by it. In fact, so much so that many people get sick or even die by not taking appropriate precautions when visiting Las Vegas. Don’t become another statistic and follow these simple tips:
Stay Hydrated, seek shade, dress appropriately, stay indoors as much as possible, use cooling products, pace yourself, and listen to your body if you start feeling sick. Lastly, be aware that alcohol makes it worse.
