Las Vegas Dries Out After Heavy Rainfall and Flooding
Las Vegas residents are in recovery mode after enduring a two-day bout of heavy rainfall that led to street flooding, water rescues, and the closure of a stretch of Interstate 15 south of the city. Amid these challenges, authorities are investigating a possible rain-related fatality.
The National Weather Service had cautioned about a slight risk of excessive rainfall on Sunday, with conditions expected to improve later in the week.
In response to the deluge, emergency crews conducted a total of 24 water rescues, aiding over 30 stranded vehicles and rescuing around a dozen individuals from rising waters, as reported by Las Vegas Fire & Rescue.
Sad Discovery and Wet Statistics
Tragedy struck on Saturday when the body of a person was found in northwest Las Vegas. This individual is believed to have tragically drowned after being swept away by the force of moving water. Authorities have yet to release the name and cause of death of the victim.
Over the past 48 hours, certain areas in and around Las Vegas were pelted with over 3 inches of rain, according to data from the Clark County Regional Flood Control District.
Above-Average Rainfall
This year, Las Vegas has experienced a rainfall total of 3.9 inches, surpassing the norm by 1.2 inches and trailing the typical annual precipitation by a mere 0.19 inches, as confirmed by the weather service.
Last month, the city contended with rain from Tropical Storm Hilary, which soaked the Las Vegas Strip and triggered a number of water rescues.
Roads Reopen, Flood Watch Persists
In addition to flooding streets and sidewalks, the intense rainfall necessitated the shutdown of all lanes on I-15 south of Jean. However, officials shared a glimmer of relief on Saturday night, announcing the reopening of all freeway lanes.
As the community regains its footing, a flood watch remains in effect for parts of eastern, north central, northeast, and south central Nevada through Monday morning, as declared by the weather service.