The National Weather Service issued a flood advisory for parts of the Las Vegas valley on Friday afternoon, warning residents of flooding as heavy rain moved through the region. The alert followed reports of storms that brought downpours, flooding and hail to several neighborhoods across the valley.
Local outlets reported that the storms produced flooding on roadways and in low-lying areas, with water rescue operations required in some locations. In Henderson, one person died after heavy rain triggered three separate water rescue operations, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. Forecasters have urged drivers to avoid flooded roads and to stay alert for rapidly rising water.
The advisory and the rain come as forecasters expected additional showers to return to the area ahead of the Halloween weekend, according to FOX5 Vegas. Weather officials have not yet detailed how long the flooding threat will last, and residents are being asked to monitor updates from the National Weather Service as conditions change.
Flash flooding is a recurring concern in the Las Vegas valley, where dry desert ground can quickly shed heavy rainfall into streets, washes and drainage channels. Storms that arrive with little warning can overwhelm drainage systems and create dangerous conditions for drivers and pedestrians alike.