Albuquerque, NM – Showers will begin impacting parts of central and southern New Mexico by midday Tuesday, with thunderstorms developing by late afternoon that could disrupt travel and outdoor plans through the evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, light rain will focus south of Interstate 40 through the morning, with precipitation expanding into the higher terrain between noon and 6 p.m. Rainfall amounts will generally stay under 0.25 inches, though isolated areas in southeastern New Mexico could see totals closer to 0.50 inches.
Cities including Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Vegas, NM, will see increasing rain coverage through the afternoon, with storm chances peaking during the evening commute. Lightning and brief gusty winds are possible with stronger cells, especially near mountain areas.
Temperatures will run cooler than normal across southern New Mexico, with highs in the upper 50s to mid-60s, while northern areas remain closer to seasonal averages.
Looking ahead, a more widespread and beneficial rainfall pattern develops starting Friday afternoon and continuing through Sunday morning. Rain chances climb to 70 to 90 percent in eastern New Mexico, with improving drought conditions possible.
Residents should plan for changing conditions today and remain alert for thunderstorms later this week. Additional updates are expected as rain coverage increases into the weekend.
