The National Park Service and the National Weather Service are issuing a strong warning about the Wind Advisory in effect for Southern Nevada including both Lakes Mead and Mohave. The Weather Service is forecasting 25-35 mph sustained winds, with gusts up to 50 mph. These are not safe boating conditions. Launching vessels in these conditions is not recommended. The weather forecasted for Sunday and Monday of this holiday weekend should provide conditions for a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors in the park.
Please note that the wind conditions in a Wind Advisory are stronger and more dangerous than a Lake Wind Advisory. A Lake Wind Advisory has sustained winds of 25 mph and gusts of up to 40 mph. The more serious Wind Advisory has sustained winds of more than 30 mph and gusts of up to 58 mph.
On Friday, May 26, a 32-year-old Los Angeles, California woman named Laura Ventura, died on Lake Mohave. It was the 9th fatality in the recreation area this calendar year. At this time, Rangers believe waves and wind action were contributing factors to this fatality. The exact cause of death is not known at this time. The Mohave County Medical Examiner is handling the investigation.
At least 12 visitors were rescued on Lakes Mead and Mohave on Friday, May 26. All of the people rescued, were on vessels affected by strong winds, and the resulting wave size and action.
NPS Rangers are urging all boaters to heed Lake Wind Advisories and the more serious Wind Advisories. All visitors, whether boating or enjoying the beaches, should wear a US Coast Guard approved life jacket at all times. Rangers urge visitors to leave backyard pool "floating" toys (like blow up rafts, air mattresses, rubber rafts, inner tubes, etc.) in the backyard. These types of toys are not safe on open bodies of water, especially in high winds.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a unit of the National Park Service.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
