Nevada

Things to know...

Details that are different from state to state and may make your posting just a little bit easier!

• Weather & Natural Disasters

  Nevada’s weather is defined by its desert climate, with hot, dry summers where temperatures often exceed 100°F and winters that are mild in the south but colder in the north, with averages ranging from 20°F to 50°F. The state is generally arid but can experience sudden flash floods during summer thunderstorms and occasional snow in northern regions and higher elevations.

  Dust Storms

  Dust storms can occur suddenly, particularly during the summer months. These storms bring low visibility and strong winds, which can disrupt travel and cause respiratory issues. If you encounter a dust storm, pull over, stay in your vehicle, and wait for conditions to improve.

  Flooding

  Flash flooding is another risk, especially during monsoon season from July to September. While Las Vegas typically experiences little rain, when it does rain, the desert landscape causes water to pool quickly in low-lying areas and streets. Never drive through floodwaters, as roads can be washed out rapidly, and just a few inches of moving water can knock over a vehicle.

  Wildfires

  High heat, dry conditions, and strong winds create ideal conditions for wildfires, so it's important to follow local fire restrictions and stay informed about fire risk levels during hot months.

  Prepare

  Receiving weather warnings, alerts and updates through multiple means will ensure that you are prepared and can act quickly. NOAA weather radio, local weather broadcasts, outdoor sirens, wireless emergency alerts (if you switch to an American area code), weather apps, and social media are all great tools to receive national and statewide disaster and emergency alerts.

  For more in-depth information, check out ready.gov, a national campaign aimed at educating and empowering individuals to prepare for, respond to, and mitigate emergencies and disasters.

• Neighbourhoods

  Las Vegas

  Located approximately 8 miles northeast of downtown Las Vegas, is Nellis Air Force Base. Las Vegas offers a wide range of housing options, including apartments, condominiums, and single-family homes. Popular neighborhoods include Summerlin, Henderson, and Centennial Hills, each offering unique amenities and community features.

  Neighborhood Navigator: A tool from Military One Source that helps you explore and learn more about a community, including information on schools, amenities, demographics, and more. 

• Base Information & Resources
  For more detailed information about each base, including contact information and specific services offered, you can visit Military One Source and select your state followed by your installation or click the links below.
  
  Spouses and dependents with valid Department of Defense (DoD) identification cards have access to Nellis Air Force Base.
   

  • Nellis Air Force Base offers a commissary, exchange, and various Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities. Amenities include a fitness center, arts and crafts center, child development center, community commons, movie theater, hospital, post office, and dining options like the Desert Oasis and The Club. For the most updated information on Nellis AFB MWR facilities and services > visit Nellis AFB
• Getting Around

  Getting around Las Vegas in relation to Nellis Air Force Base and Creech Air Force Base is primarily car-dependent, with Nellis located about 10 miles northeast of the city and Creech about 40 miles northwest. Traffic can be heavier near Nellis, especially during base entry and exit times, and when events or operations are taking place. For those stationed at Nellis or Creech, driving is the most convenient option.

• On-Base Medical Treatment Facility

  The following medical groups provide comprehensive medical care to CAF Families who have been enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) and have TRICARE eligibility. Mike O'Callaghan Military Medical Center.

  Unsure about your healthcare coverage? Visit our Healthcare in the U.S. webpage, where you'll find tailored pathways for personalized coverage details. 

• Critters & Wildlife

  Nevada is home to wildlife such as venomous snakes like the Western Diamondback rattlesnake and the Mojave rattlesnake, as well as scorpions and occasional encounters with mountain lions in more rural areas. The state also has ticks, though they are less common compared to other regions. Compared to Canada, Nevada’s desert climate supports a greater number of reptiles and insects, making routine pest control recommended to manage scorpions, termites, and other pests that thrive in the dry heat.

• Children's Education

  There are several public schools within 25 miles of Nellis AFB as well as one notable institution (Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas), which operates a campus directly on Nellis AFB.

  • Clark County School District Both Nellis and Creech AFBs are situated within the Clark County School District, the fifth-largest school district in the United States. It offers comprehensive educational programs for kindergarten through 12th grade, including magnet programs tailored to students with specific interests and abilities.
    • Doris French Elementary School: Doris French Elementary School offers a French language program as part of its curriculum. The school's mission is to provide academic tools and promote social responsibility in a respectful learning environment. Enrollment Considerations: As a public school within the Clark County School District, enrollment is typically open to residents of the district. It's advisable to contact the school directly to inquire about specific enrollment procedures, deadlines, and any residency requirements.
  • Coral Academy of Science Las Vegas (CASLV). Grades Served: Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade. CASLV is a tuition-free public charter school emphasizing a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with a strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The Nellis AFB campus provides convenient access for military families residing on or near the base. Enrollment Information: As a public charter school, CASLV is open to all students who meet Nevada's age requirements. For kindergarten enrollment, children must be five years old by a specific date set by the state. Detailed admission procedures and application deadlines can be found on CASLV's admissions page.
  • Alliance Française de Las Vegas (AFVL): AFLV is a cultural and educational organization offering French language classes for all ages, including children. They provide full immersion classes designed to make learning French a positive experience. Enrollment Considerations: AFLV offers various programs, including group classes, private lessons, and summer camps. Enrollment is open to all interested individuals. It's recommended to contact AFLV directly to learn more about class schedules, fees, and registration deadlines.

   

  It is highly recommended that you connect with your installation’s School Liaison, who can provide valuable information on local school districts, act as a bridge between the military community and school administrators, and offer expert guidance on educational matters.

  Nellis Air Force Base School Liaison Program

• Child Care

  Child Development Centers

  Child Development Centers (CDCs) generally offer childcare for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Care is available Monday through Friday, with some locations offering options such as extended hours, weekend care, and respite care. Child Development Centers vary in size, and larger installations may operate multiple facilities. Programs are certified by the Department of Defense and accredited by a national accrediting body, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

  For a full list of military-operated childcare programs, including Child Development Centers, childcare programs, before- and after-school care, as well as summer and holiday camps, visit MilitaryChildCare.com. There, you can enter your location or military installation to find a comprehensive list of childcare programs, as well as submit requests for care through Child Development Centers, school-age care programs, and DOD-certified Family Child Care providers.

  Additional Child and Developement Resources

  Vsit our Family Care webpage, where you’ll find parenting and advocacy programs, development resources, toolkits, and more.

• Automobile Registration, Plates & Licenses

  The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles provides information on transferring out-of-state titles and licenses.