Summer thunderstorms in Southern Nevada are characterized by sudden and often violent changes in the weather. These storms are often accompanied by high winds that can create a severe danger for boaters, according to the Nevada Department of Wildlife.

Of great concern to department game wardens are those boaters who are new to the Southwest and are unfamiliar with the ferocity of the region's summer weather patterns.

"Many people, especially those who are new to the desert, just don't realize how fast desert thunderstorms can come up. They usually bring with them high winds and rough water," said David Pfiffner, supervising game warden for the department. "Unwary boaters are often taken by surprise; that can lead to real problems."

Over the years, several people have lost their lives in weather-related boating accidents. One example, Pfiffner explained, occurred when a boat swamped in high winds on Lake Mohave. One of the passengers died. He wasn't wearing a life jacket.

"When caught by a storm, a boater's first order of business <!-- 2013(unknown) --> if they aren't wearing it already <!-- 2013(unknown) --> is to put on their life jacket," Pfiffner said. Then the boater should look for a protected location in which to ride out the storm.

Heavy rains that can lead to flash floods, which can wash large amounts of debris into waterways, may also accompany summer storms. Boaters need to watch for floating obstacles that might damage their boat or cause an accident.

"A good rule of thumb is to 'keep an eye to the sky.' The sky will tell the weather story, especially during the summer," Pfiffner said.