Albuquerque, N.M. – Repeated rounds of thunderstorms will continue across New Mexico through Sunday, bringing the risk of heavy rainfall and dangerous flash flooding, especially across western, central and northern parts of the state. The greatest concern remains near recent wildfire burn scars, where even brief periods of intense rain could trigger life-threatening runoff.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, Flash Flood Watches remain in effect for portions of western New Mexico through 9 p.m. Friday, while the Ruidoso area is under a watch from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday. The watches include vulnerable burn scar areas below the South Fork, Salt and Seven Cabins wildfire scars, where recent rainfall has already saturated the ground.
Forecasters say stronger thunderstorms will be capable of producing rainfall rates exceeding 1 inch per hour, creating a heightened risk of flash flooding in arroyos, low-water crossings, urban areas with poor drainage and steep terrain. The highest flooding threat is expected from mid-afternoon through the evening each day.
Communities including Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Gallup, Grants, Socorro, Farmington, Ruidoso and surrounding mountain communities should remain alert for rapidly changing weather conditions. Western and southern New Mexico are expected to receive the heaviest rainfall through Saturday, with additional storm chances continuing into Sunday.
Temperatures will remain seasonably warm, generally ranging from the 80s to low 90s, before hotter conditions gradually expand into central and eastern New Mexico by the middle of next week as thunderstorm coverage decreases.
Residents are urged to avoid flooded roadways, never drive through water-covered crossings and stay away from burn scar areas during heavy rain. Additional Flash Flood Warnings may be issued with little notice as thunderstorms develop throughout the weekend.
