Weather
New Mexico Severe Storms Sun Nov 1: Tornado Risk, 3 Inches of Rain
Albuquerque, NM – New Mexico faces multiple weather threats Sunday, Nov. 1, as severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds and tornadoes develop across central and eastern areas, while he
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-11-01T12:53:14.252Z
Albuquerque, NM – New Mexico faces multiple weather threats Sunday, Nov. 1, as severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging winds and tornadoes develop across central and eastern areas, while heavy rainfall raises significant flooding concerns farther west.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, a Level 2 of 5 slight risk of severe thunderstorms covers portions of central and eastern New Mexico Sunday afternoon through the overnight hours. Meanwhile, northwestern New Mexico faces a Level 3 of 4 excessive rainfall risk.
Severe Storms and Tornado Threat Through Tonight Forecasters expect thunderstorms to develop across west central New Mexico between 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday, with activity spreading from the Rio Grande Valley eastward between 5 p.m. and 2 a.m.
Damaging wind gusts are a primary concern, while tornadoes and hail are also possible.
Strong winds could create dangerous crosswinds for high profile vehicles. Forecast gusts reach approximately 45 mph around Gallup and Clines Corners Sunday, with gusts near 52 mph possible around Clines Corners Monday.
Flooding Risk Reaches Level 3 in Northwest New Mexico A Flood Watch remains in effect across much of western New Mexico, where widespread rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches are expected.
The greatest amounts are forecast near Chama and the Tusas Mountains.
The National Weather Service estimates an 85% probability of at least 2 inches of rain near Chama, compared with 18% around Gallup.
Already saturated soils increase the potential for flooding in arroyos, streams, urban areas and poorly drained locations.
River levels are expected to rise, with some waterways potentially reaching their highest levels Monday or Tuesday.
Residents Urged to Monitor Weather Alerts Forecasters warn that strong crosswinds could affect travel Sunday and Monday, while unsecured outdoor decorations and other objects may be blown around.
Downed trees are another concern where soils remain saturated.
Residents should avoid flooded roadways, stay away from rising rivers and maintain multiple ways to receive weather warnings.
Updated forecasts and warnings are available at weather.gov/abq.