Albuquerque, NM – Light rain and high-elevation snow will develop Friday into Saturday, bringing minor travel impacts to northern and western New Mexico.
According to the US National Weather Service in Albuquerque, low temperatures tonight will remain several degrees above normal, with isolated showers across northwest and north-central New Mexico. Snow levels are expected to remain high, near 9,500 feet, limiting accumulations to the highest terrain including the Tusas Mountains.
The next storm system is forecast to move across the state Friday through Saturday morning, spreading more widespread rain and mountain snow. Snow levels will initially sit near 8,500 feet Friday before lowering to between 7,000 and 8,000 feet Friday night.
Forecasters indicate minor winter travel impacts are most likely above 7,500 feet, particularly along mountain passes on U.S. Highways 64 and 84. Slick and icy roads, along with periods of reduced visibility, may develop in western and northern high terrain.
Snowfall totals of 1 to 2 inches are possible above 9,500 feet, with lighter accumulations at lower elevations. Most valley locations, including Albuquerque and Santa Fe, are expected to see mainly rain.
High temperatures Thursday will run well above normal, with many communities 10 to 20 degrees above seasonal averages before cooling slightly Friday and Saturday.
Drivers traveling across mountain corridors late Friday into early Saturday should monitor conditions, especially along U.S. 64, U.S. 84, and portions of Interstate 25 near Raton Pass.
Another active period is possible early next week with stronger winds and elevated fire weather conditions in eastern New Mexico.
