New Mexico – A prolonged winter storm brought significant snowfall across New Mexico from January 23 through January 26, with the heaviest accumulations concentrated in mountainous regions, according to compiled storm reports.
The highest snowfall total reported in the state was 31.0 inches near Bonito Lake (6 miles southwest), making it the snowiest observed location in New Mexico during the multi-day event. The extreme total highlights the storm’s strong upslope and terrain-driven snowfall across southern and central mountain ranges.
Additional high-end reports include 13.0 inches near Red River (8 miles southwest), 12.0 inches in Ruidoso (1 mile northeast), and 11.0 inches in Timberton (2 miles south). Several other mountain and high-elevation communities recorded double-digit snowfall, underscoring the storm’s broad impact beyond a single peak location.
Snowfall totals of 10 inches were reported in Cuba (9 miles east), High Rolls (1 mile west-northwest), and Taos Ski Valley (1 mile south-southwest). Slightly lower but still impactful totals were observed farther south and east, including 9.0 inches in Alto (2 miles east-southeast).
In southeastern New Mexico, snowfall extended well into lower elevations. Roswell Correctional Facility (4 miles south-southwest) measured 8.8 inches, while Artesia (2 miles east-southeast) reported 8.0 inches, reflecting the storm’s unusually broad reach.
Snow accumulated steadily over multiple days rather than falling in a single intense burst, prolonging travel impacts across mountain passes and secondary roads. Major routes including U.S. Highways 64, 70, 82, and 285 experienced periods of slick roads, reduced visibility, and intermittent closures, particularly at higher elevations.
Cleanup and avalanche mitigation efforts continued after snowfall ended as cold temperatures allowed deep snowpack to persist, especially in mountainous terrain.
The January 23–26 storm ranks among the most significant snow events of the season for New Mexico, particularly for mountain communities, contributing meaningfully to seasonal snowpack and water supply while creating notable travel challenges.
