Living in a Desert
Las Vegas’s climate, as an arid desert, is just what you would expect. It can be wonderful and harsh, both at the same time. Be sure that you take the necessary precautions in order to stay healthy and conserve energy.
With an altitude of 2,028 feet above sea level, Las Vegas is located in the Mojave Desert, and is its largest city. Mountains surrounding the Las Vegas Valley extend 2,000 to 10,000 feet above the Valley floor. The Las Vegas Valley, comprised of approximately 600 square miles, runs from northwest to southeast.
Living with the Climate
The climate in Southern Nevada is generally very pleasant during the fall, winter and spring. Winters are mild and pleasant with afternoon temperatures near 60 degrees and skies are mostly clear. The spring and fall seasons are generally considered ideal. Although rather sharp temperature changes can occur during these months, outdoor activities are seldom hampered. In the summer months of June through August, lows are in the 70s with temperatures climbing into the 100s, but it’s a dry heat with extremely low humidity. There are several things that you’ll want to watch out for.
Staying Healthy
One of the area’s major advantages is the abundance of sunny days. At the same time, it’s important to be aware of the dangers of sun and excess exposure, which can cause sunburn, premature aging, wrinkled, leathery or rough skin and skin cancer. You and your family members can be at high risk for developing skin cancer – especially young children. Follow these practical steps from the American Cancer Society (cancer.org/cancer/skincancer/index) to help protect you from the effects of the sun. These steps complement each other and provide the best protection when used together.
Keeping Your Children Healthy Outdoors
If you think the desert and arid landscape is brutal on an adult, then believe that it is much worse for a child. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides these tips and best practices for children to be healthy and safe while outdoors. aap.org
