Marek Kučera 
On July 1, 2025, the Las Vegas Valley was struck by a severe windstorm with gusts reaching up to 70 mph, causing extensive damage across the region. The powerful winds, combined with intense dust storms in what meteorologists called a “virga bomb” event, resulted in widespread disruption. Nearly 50 power poles were snapped, particularly along Tropicana Avenue between McLeod Drive and Pecos Road, leading to significant power outages that affected more than 33,000 NV Energy customers at the storm’s peak.
The high winds downed power lines and poles, triggering road closures and leaving many drivers stranded. Visibility was severely reduced by the blowing dust, complicating travel and emergency response efforts. Harry Reid International Airport also faced flight delays and cancellations as a result of the dangerous conditions.
By July 2, repair crews had begun working to restore power and replace the damaged poles, but over 2,800 customers remained without electricity. The storm serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of infrastructure to extreme weather events and the importance of preparedness in regions prone to sudden, intense storms.
Illustration picture: Bloomberg
