When you think about St. Patrick’s Day in Nevada, maybe you picture warm desert sunshine or a cool spring breeze. The truth? The weather can swing pretty quickly depending on where you are in the state.
Around mid-March, northern Nevada usually gets mild afternoons with highs near 15 °C, while the south warms up closer to 20–22 °C. Nights, though, often drop near freezing in the northern valleys, but Las Vegas stays much milder.
This mix of warm days and chilly nights makes planning tricky. You might catch a sunny afternoon parade, but you’ll definitely want a jacket after sunset, especially if you’re in Reno or Elko.
Rainfall stays light across much of Nevada in March. The northern mountains can still pick up snow.
Knowing these patterns helps you figure out whether to pack layers, plan outdoor gatherings, or brace for cooler evenings. Nevada’s range of climates—from the Mojave Desert in the south to the high desert up north—means St. Patrick’s Day can feel pretty different depending on where you celebrate.
Typical Weather on St. Patrick’s Day in Nevada
Around St. Patrick’s Day, Nevada starts shifting from winter chill toward early spring warmth. You’ll notice cool mornings, mild afternoons, and a mix of clear skies with the occasional rain or snow, depending on the region.
Conditions vary a lot between the southern desert and the northern mountain valleys.
Average Temperature Ranges
On March 17, temperatures really depend on where you are in Nevada. In Las Vegas, highs usually hit around 70–72°F and lows settle near 50°F. That means comfortable afternoons but cooler evenings.
In Reno, average highs reach about 57°F and lows dip to 33°F. If you head up to Elko, highs hover near 52°F and lows fall to 27°F. Frosty mornings are still common up there.
This wide range shows how Nevada’s geography shapes the weather. Desert valleys warm up fast, but higher elevations stay cooler.
You’ll want to bring layers, especially if you’re planning to be outside in the morning or evening.
Precipitation Patterns
March brings some transition, so precipitation happens but isn’t frequent. In Las Vegas, rain falls only about 2–3 days all month and usually as quick showers. Total rainfall averages 0.5 inches or less.
In Reno, you’ll see about 6–7 days with measurable precipitation in March. Rain totals average 1.7 inches. Light snow is still possible, though not as common as in January or February.
Elko gets more precipitation than Las Vegas but less than Reno, with around 5–6 days of rain or snow. Average March snowfall is near 1–2 inches.
If you’re traveling in northern Nevada, be ready for mixed rain and snow, especially at higher elevations.
Clear Skies and Sunshine
Nevada’s famous for sunshine, and mid-March doesn’t disappoint. In Las Vegas, skies stay clear or mostly clear about two-thirds of the time. That’s great news if you’re hoping for outdoor events.
Average daylight lasts about 12 hours, so there’s plenty of time to enjoy the day.
In Reno and Elko, skies get a bit cloudier, but you’ll still get more clear days than gloomy ones. Reno averages about 51% clear to partly clear skies in March, while Elko sits close to 49%.
Your odds are good for a sunny St. Patrick’s Day parade, especially in the south.
Wind and Humidity Levels
March brings moderate winds. In Las Vegas, average winds hit 8–9 mph, often picking up in the afternoon. Reno and Elko see breezes around 7–8 mph, and open valleys can make those winds feel stronger.
Humidity stays low all over Nevada. Las Vegas air is usually dry, with barely any muggy days. Reno and Elko have low humidity too, which keeps the air crisp but can make it feel cooler than the thermometer says.
You should expect dry air, light to moderate breezes, and no sticky humidity. Outdoor activities feel pleasant, though gusts sometimes kick up dust in the desert.
St. Patrick’s Day Weather in Las Vegas
When you visit Las Vegas in mid-March, you’ll find mild to warm afternoons, cooler evenings, and mostly dry skies. Sometimes strong winds show up, but rainfall and thunderstorms almost never do.
March in Las Vegas Climate Overview
March marks the shift from winter to spring in Las Vegas. The desert climate keeps the air dry, and the skies are usually clear.
On average, you get about 27 sunny days in March. Outdoor activities are comfortable, and daylight stretches to 12 hours by mid-month.
Wind is easy to notice this time of year. Gusts sometimes jump past 30–40 mph, especially around St. Patrick’s Day. They’re not constant, but they can mess with outdoor plans, like parades or pool parties.
Humidity stays very low, often under 25%. The air feels crisp, but evenings can get chilly.
Typical Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
During mid-March in Las Vegas, daytime temperatures usually run from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Sometimes you’ll see highs closer to 80°F, but that’s not the norm.
Nights cool off. Average lows fall between 45°F and 55°F (7°C to 13°C). The dry desert air lets heat escape fast after sunset, so bring a layer if you’ll be out late.
Compared to winter, March feels much more comfortable. Many hotel pools open, though the water might still feel a bit chilly. If you like walking the Strip or going to outdoor events, the mild afternoons are perfect.
Chance of Rain and Thunderstorms
Rain barely makes an appearance in Las Vegas during March. The city averages less than half an inch of rain for the whole month. Showers, when they show up, are quick—many years, St. Patrick’s Day stays totally dry.
Thunderstorms almost never happen in March. The desert climate keeps lightning rare, and the main storm season waits for summer.
Most people get clear skies or just a few clouds. If a system does roll through, you’ll probably get wind instead of heavy rain.
Precipitation Trends and Snowfall Across Nevada
Nevada ranks as the driest state in the U.S., but conditions shift a lot depending on elevation and region. Low valleys barely see rain, while mountain ranges can rack up serious snowfall that matters for water supply and recreation.
Rainfall Averages in March
March starts to dry out in many areas as winter moisture fades. Statewide, the average annual precipitation is about 10 inches, but March only brings a small piece of that.
In Las Vegas, less than 0.5 inches of rain falls all month, spread across just a few days. Reno, up near the Sierra Nevada, records closer to 1 inch. Far northern spots like Elko can reach 1.2 inches.
Most of this comes as light showers, not long, soaking rain. You’ll get brief wet spells, not days of dreary weather. Rainy days are rare, often fewer than five in southern Nevada.
Snowfall and Snow Depth in Northern Regions
Snow matters a lot more in northern and central Nevada during March. Mountain ranges like the Ruby Mountains and areas near Lake Tahoe still hold deep snowpack. Higher terrain can have over 50 inches of snow this time of year.
In Reno, March snowfall averages around 3 to 4 inches, but totals jump with elevation. Towns like Ely and Elko may see 6 to 10 inches in March, and the peaks get several feet.
This snow is key for spring runoff, feeding rivers like the Truckee and Carson. If you’re traveling in northern Nevada, expect winter driving conditions in mountain passes to stick around well into March.
Thunderstorm Occurrences
Thunderstorms don’t show up much in Nevada during March, but sometimes you’ll catch one, especially down south. These storms are usually quick and isolated.
When they do form, they bring gusty winds and short downpours instead of long, heavy rain. Lightning can happen, but severe weather like big hail or tornadoes is rare in March.
By late spring, thunderstorm activity picks up, but in mid-March you’re more likely to see cool rain or light snow. Storm-related travel disruptions are pretty limited this time of year.
Weather Variability and Historical Patterns
Nevada’s weather around March 17 can change fast. Some years bring mild afternoons, while others turn cold and unsettled. Temperature swings, dry spells, and the occasional storm all shape how St. Patrick’s Day feels across the state.
Weather History on St. Patrick’s Day
If you look back at St. Patrick’s Day in Nevada, you’ll find all kinds of weather. In the north, mornings often start below freezing, but southern spots like Las Vegas usually feel much warmer.
Average highs range from the mid-50s in Reno to the upper 60s or low 70s in Las Vegas. Snow almost never falls in the south, but higher elevations and northern valleys can still get it. Some years bring light snow showers, while others stay dry and sunny.
Rain is more likely in the west near the Sierra Nevada, where moisture sometimes spills over.
This variation really comes down to Nevada’s geography. Higher terrain stays colder and more unsettled, while desert valleys remain mild.
Record Highs and Lows
Temperature extremes in mid-March show how unpredictable Nevada’s climate can be. Las Vegas has hit the mid-80s °F for record highs on March 17, while record lows have dropped into the mid-30s °F. Reno gets even bigger swings, with highs in the 70s possible but lows falling into the teens some years.
Here’s a quick look:
| Location | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Record High (°F) | Record Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas | 69 | 47 | 85+ | 34 |
| Reno | 56 | 32 | 74 | 15 |
You might need a jacket in the morning but short sleeves by afternoon, all depending on the year.
Notable Weather Events
Some St. Patrick’s Days in Nevada have stood out for odd weather. In the north, late-season snowstorms have dropped several inches, making travel tough. Reno has seen snowy March 17ths with daytime highs that never broke freezing.
Meanwhile, southern Nevada has sometimes gotten early spring heat. Las Vegas has recorded sunny, dry St. Patrick’s Days with temperatures soaring into the 80s °F.
Wind events pop up a lot too. Gusty conditions often hit in March, especially in valleys and mountain passes. Down south, that means blowing dust. Up north, drifting snow becomes a problem if a storm is around.
Regional Differences: Mojave Desert and Beyond
Nevada’s mid-March weather varies a lot by region. Elevation, latitude, and whether you’re in the desert or mountains all play a part, so your experience can be totally different depending on where you go.
Mojave Desert Climate Characteristics
The Mojave Desert stretches across southern Nevada, covering places near Las Vegas. Around St. Patrick’s Day, daytime highs usually climb into the upper 60s or even mid-70s °F (20–24°C).
At night, temperatures drop fast. Lows often slide into the 40s °F (4–9°C).
Dry air and clear skies cause a big swing between day and night temperatures.
Rain hardly ever shows up this time of year, though a quick shower might surprise you.
Winds sweep across open desert valleys, and they can make afternoons feel chillier than you’d expect from the thermometer.
The Mojave counts as a high desert, with elevations mostly between 2,000 and 5,000 feet.
This higher ground keeps spring temperatures more moderate than in lower deserts like Death Valley.
If you’re heading outdoors, get ready for warm afternoons but definitely bring layers for the cool evenings.
Comparing Southern and Northern Nevada
Southern Nevada, shaped by the Mojave Desert, stays pretty mild in mid-March.
Las Vegas, for instance, usually sees highs near 70°F (21°C).
You can walk the Strip or hike in Red Rock Canyon without feeling too hot or cold.
Northern Nevada, like Reno and the Great Basin, feels a lot different.
Average highs only reach the mid-50s °F (12–14°C).
Lows often hover right around freezing.
Snow can still fall in the mountains, especially near Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada.
You’ll probably need different clothes depending on where you’re going.
In the south, light layers usually do the trick.
But up north, you should plan for colder weather, possible snow, and wetter conditions at higher elevations.
| Region | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Nevada | 68–72°F | 44–48°F | Mild, dry, breezy |
| Northern Nevada | 52–56°F | 30–34°F | Cool, chance of snow |
Planning for St. Patrick’s Day: Weather Tips
March weather in Nevada can change quickly.
You might get warm afternoons, cool mornings, and some windy spells.
You’ll want to prepare for changes in temperature to stay comfortable at parades, festivals, or just hanging out outside.
What to Pack for March Weather
In Las Vegas and southern Nevada, highs in mid-March often land in the upper 60s to mid-70s °F.
But evenings can get chilly, dropping into the 40s.
So, layers matter.
A light jacket or sweater will come in handy once the sun goes down.
Bring comfortable walking shoes since a lot of St. Patrick’s Day fun happens at street parades or outdoor events.
The desert air is dry, so lip balm and moisturizer can make things a bit more comfortable.
Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen—the sun feels strong even in March.
If you’re heading to northern Nevada, like Reno or Lake Tahoe, get ready for cooler weather.
Highs might stay in the 50s, and mornings can feel close to freezing.
In that case, toss in a heavier jacket, gloves, and a hat.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Layers: light jacket, sweater, or hoodie
- Sun protection: sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
- Comfort items: walking shoes, moisturizer, lip balm
- Cooler climate gear: heavier coat if traveling north
Outdoor Activities and Events
St. Patrick’s Day in Las Vegas usually brings parades, concerts, and plenty of outdoor dining. March weather feels pretty mild most years, but sometimes the wind picks up in the afternoon, which can be annoying.
I’d definitely check the local forecast before heading out, just to see if gusts might mess with your plans.
If you’re thinking about hitting events along the Strip, get ready for a lot of walking. Trust me, comfortable shoes make a big difference, and light clothes work best during the day.
At night, though, temperatures drop fast, so you’ll want to grab a jacket if you’re sticking around for fireworks or any late-night fun.
Up in northern Nevada, festivals tend to be smaller, but you’ll still find outdoor gatherings, just with cooler air. Reno can feel pretty chilly in March evenings, so layering up is a smart move.
If you’re near the mountains, snow might still show up, which could throw off your travel plans.
Watching a parade downtown or relaxing with food and drinks on a patio? Either way, planning for both sun and those cooler nights makes the whole day a lot more comfortable.