New Mexico — Clouds thicken and the air turns sharper this morning as a developing winter pattern begins to take shape across the state. For now, roads remain mostly wet, but conditions are lining up for a colder, more disruptive stretch by midweek.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, confidence is increasing in winter weather impacts from late Wednesday through Friday. Two separate storm systems will move through, bringing periods of rain, mountain snow, and strengthening winds. The first system arrives late Wednesday, favoring areas along and west of the central mountain chain.
Rain is expected to dominate lower elevations at first, while snow develops above roughly 7,000 feet. Snow levels gradually drop, allowing accumulating snow across the higher terrain. Slick and icy roads are likely along mountain passes and higher-elevation routes, even where snowfall totals remain modest.
By Thursday, a second and colder system pushes in. Precipitation shifts north and east across the state, including the Albuquerque metro. Winds increase noticeably, turning breezy to windy, especially east of the central mountains. West winds on Thursday may create hazardous crosswinds, followed by northerly winds Friday capable of producing blowing snow or brief snow squalls in northeast New Mexico.
Temperatures trend colder through this period, increasing the chance for snow to accumulate more efficiently Thursday night into Friday. Reduced visibility, slick roadways, and rapidly changing conditions could impact travel during peak commute hours.
Drivers should prepare for sudden slowdowns along I-40, I-25, and routes crossing higher terrain. Keep extra distance, reduce speed, and remain alert for snow-packed stretches that develop quickly.
Conditions improve heading into the weekend. Saturday and Sunday look quieter, with dry weather and no major impacts expected, offering a break after an active winter stretch.
Are you traveling later this week? Share what conditions look like where you are.
