Deserts get people into trouble real quick if not prepared. Narrow slot canyons and yes, “dry” lake beds can change into torrents of floodwaters even when the rain occurs miles away. Have always visited the desert southwest in the spring or winter, and it’s fantastic. Mostly. What’s noticeable is how quickly it cools off, once the sun starts to get low, or even sitting in the shade.
SOME coverage:
Although they really don’t address the hugely valid and important issue that you raise: people who dump their trash a mile or three or 20 from the playa … into other people’s – metaphorical or literal – back yards.