Flash flood deluge in Las Vegas Strip as water pours through casino ceilings

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Flash flood deluge in Las Vegas Strip as water pours through casino ceilings
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Las Vegas and surrounding Nevada areas have been hit with flash flooding after heavy rain and fast-moving thunderstorms with warnings in place for Arizona, Utah and California

The iconic Las Vegas Strip has looked more like a river this weekend after severe flash flooding.

The city and surrounding area of southern Nevada were hit by fast-moving thunderstorms and heavy rain on Friday, September 1, leaving cars stranded and thousands without electricity. By the evening, more than 2 inches of rain had fallen in Rhodes Ranch, and more than 1.5 inches was recorded at South Point at Las Vegas Boulevard.

On Friday, Las Vegas recorded 0.88 inches, which may not sound like much but is almost three times their entire September monthly average. It was the dampest September day in 11 years for the usually dry and arid area.

By the evening, more than 4,000 people were without power in the Las Vegas Valley as a result of 30 outages, according to NV Energy. The city is preparing itself for even more downpours with flash flood warnings continuing into Saturday night.

Dirty flood water ran down the Strip, passing underneath casinos and the famous High Roller Ferris wheel. Major intersections such as Las Vegas Boulevard and Cheyenne Avenue became blocked after drivers got stuck in the rapid onset flooding.

Videos posted online also showed water pouring through casino ceilings.

Around 700 flights were delayed with more than 100 cancelled due to the weather. The National Weather Service warned people not to try and cross flooded roads as residents and visitors dealt with the fallout from the flooding.

One driver was rescued from their car and multiple others abandoned their vehicles. However, a spokesman for the city said there had been no reports of major incidents.

Las Vegas Fire and Rescue took to X, formerly , to share incidents they had responded to on Friday. They wrote: "Last night, we responded to 24 swift water rescue events including: 30-35 vehicles stranded in water, 10-12 people rescued from standing or moving water."

The National Weather Service for Las Vegas also issued a stark warning. Taking to X, NWS Las Vegas said: "Ongoing roadway flooding and ongoing water rescues continue across the Las Vegas Valley. Stay indoors, if possible.

"Throw that frozen pizza in the oven for dinner. Please do not put food delivery drivers (and local first responders by extension) at risk".

Flood watches for Saturday were extended from Nevada into southwestern Utah, northwestern Arizona and northeastern California. The National Weather Service has warned the likelihood of further strong thunderstorms could trigger more flash flooding and excessive runoff.

The National Weather Service has warned "more rain on the way" with a flash flood warning in place through midnight. The warning has been put in place for Southeast Nevada, Mohave, and eastern San Bernardino Counties until 3.30pm local time.

A statement from Saturday afternoon said a flash flood warning will remain in effect until 5pm local time for west central Clark County. They have warned of "life-threatening flash flooding" of low-water crossings, creeks, normally dry washes and roads.

Residents have been advised: "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads."