Raton, N.M. – Severe thunderstorms could slam northeast New Mexico with damaging winds and large hail through 8 p.m. Wednesday, prompting officials to issue a thunderstorm watch for Colfax, Union, and Harding counties.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, conditions are favorable for severe weather development across the region Wednesday afternoon and evening. The watch, issued at 1:05 p.m. MDT, warns of the potential for wind gusts up to 70 mph and hail larger than quarters.
Communities along U.S. Highway 64 and Interstate 25—including Raton, Clayton, and Roy—should stay alert as strong storm cells could develop rapidly and shift eastward toward the Texas and Oklahoma borders. Outdoor activities should be postponed, and residents are urged to secure loose objects and remain indoors if warnings are issued.
Emergency management teams across northeastern New Mexico are monitoring the evolving situation. While tornado potential remains low, isolated rotation is not ruled out, especially near the Colorado state line.
The severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect until 8 p.m., but officials may extend or upgrade alerts if conditions worsen. Residents should monitor NOAA Weather Radio or local news for the latest updates and be prepared to take shelter quickly if storms intensify.
