Albuquerque, New Mexico – Damaging 60 mph wind gusts are set to hit the Albuquerque metro by 6 a.m. Friday, threatening power lines, overturning high-profile vehicles, and creating hazardous crosswinds along I-40 and I-25 corridors.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, a High Wind Warning is in effect from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday for the Middle Rio Grande Valley, including eastern parts of the metro. East winds will sustain between 30 and 40 mph, with peak gusts reaching 60 mph, especially near Tijeras Canyon where terrain will accelerate airflow.
Drivers along I-40 through Tijeras Pass should expect sudden crosswinds capable of pushing semis and RVs out of lanes. Utility crews are also on alert as weakened trees and power infrastructure face increased stress, raising the risk of localized outages across Bernalillo County.
Across eastern New Mexico, including Curry, Quay, Roosevelt, and Union counties, winds begin earlier—by midnight tonight—and continue through 3 p.m. Friday. Blowing dust along U.S. 54 and rural highways may drop visibility below one mile at times, particularly along the leading edge of a cold front.
Residents should secure outdoor items immediately and avoid unnecessary travel during peak wind hours. Additional advisories may be issued as conditions evolve through Friday night.
