Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of Las Vegas, Nevada
620 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-4.0°C
Temperature Drop
94.1kPa
Air Pressure
92.9%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation620 meters
Everest Comparison7.0% of Everest
Altitude Risk✅ Low RiskBelow altitude sickness threshold
RegionNevada
Highest PointFrenchman Mountain (1486 meters)
Notable Landmarks
Stratosphere Tower
1149 meterselevation
Red Rock Canyon Summit
2070 meterselevation
Mount Charleston Peak
3632 meterselevation
Lake Mead
372 meterselevation
Frenchman Mountain Peak
1486 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Las Vegas occupies a broad desert valley at 620 meters, surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges including the Spring Mountains and Frenchman Mountain. The city sits in a basin formed by block-faulting typical of the Basin and Range Province. The geology features complex interactions between ancient marine sediments, volcanic deposits, and more recent alluvial fan development. The Las Vegas Wash drains the valley toward Lake Mead, while the surrounding mountains rise over 3,000 meters above the valley floor, creating remarkable ecological diversity within a short distance. The basin's subsurface geology significantly influences groundwater movement and availability.
Climate Impact
At 620 meters, Las Vegas experiences a low-elevation desert climate intensified by the urban heat island effect. The elevation contributes to extreme temperature variations, with summer highs reaching 47°C and winter lows dropping to -1°C. Annual rainfall averages just 10.4cm, though surrounding mountains can receive significant winter snow above 2,000 meters. The valley orientation influences wind patterns, particularly during dust storm events. The atmospheric pressure remains relatively high at 94% of sea level, creating distinct challenges for cooling systems rather than the altitude-related issues found in higher locations. The growing season extends nearly year-round at this elevation, though extreme heat limits optimal growing conditions to spring and fall months.
Historical Context
Las Vegas's relationship with elevation shaped its development from a desert oasis into a major metropolitan area. The city's position in a low-elevation valley made it a natural transportation hub, while the surrounding mountains provided crucial water resources through spring discharge and snowmelt. The construction of Hoover Dam created Lake Mead at 372 meters, providing both water supply and hydroelectric power essential for urban development. Modern Las Vegas demonstrates sophisticated adaptations to low-elevation desert conditions, including extensive use of desert landscaping and innovative building designs to combat extreme heat. The development of Mount Charleston as a ski area showcases the remarkable elevation gradient within Clark County, while the city's water management systems reflect complex interactions between valley floor development and mountain water sources.
Cities with Similar Elevation
FAQs: Las Vegas's Elevation
What is the elevation of Las Vegas?
Las Vegas has an elevation of 620 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does Las Vegas's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of Las Vegas (620 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near Las Vegas?
The highest point in Las Vegas is Frenchman Mountain (1486 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
