Weather
Central New Mexico Weather: Wet Weekend Ahead Oct. 23-25
Albuquerque, NM – A developing storm system is expected to bring several rounds of showers, possible thunderstorms and cooler temperatures to the Albuquerque metropolitan area beginning Thursday, Octo
By Caleb Mercer · 2026-10-21T10:36:31.746Z
Albuquerque, NM – A developing storm system is expected to bring several rounds of showers, possible thunderstorms and cooler temperatures to the Albuquerque metropolitan area beginning Thursday, October 22. Rain chances climb to 70% Thursday night, with unsettled conditions continuing into the weekend as afternoon temperatures fall from 79 degrees Wednesday to 69 degrees Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, isolated showers and thunderstorms could develop Thursday afternoon before precipitation becomes more widespread overnight. Showers are likely after midnight Thursday night, with a 70% chance of precipitation and a low near 55 degrees.
Storm Chances Increase Thursday Night The changing forecast comes as a Pacific storm system moves into the western United States, drawing additional moisture into portions of the Southwest and Four Corners region.
The Weather Prediction Center has identified an elevated excessive rainfall threat across portions of the Four Corners, including a Moderate Risk in parts of the region Thursday.
That regional designation represents at least a 40% probability of excessive rainfall capable of producing flash flooding within the designated risk area. It does not mean Albuquerque itself has a 40% flooding probability.
For Bernalillo County residents, the immediate concern is the return of showers and thunderstorms, particularly Thursday night through Saturday.
Wet pavement, reduced visibility and changing weather conditions could affect motorists traveling around Albuquerque and nearby communities, including Rio Rancho in neighboring Sandoval County.
Albuquerque Five Day Weather Outlook Wednesday 10/21: Partly sunny skies dominate, with a high near 79 degrees. South winds reach 5 to 10 mph during the afternoon. Tonight becomes mostly cloudy, with temperatures falling to approximately 55 degrees.
Thursday 10/22: Partly sunny conditions continue, with isolated showers and thunderstorms developing after noon. The high reaches approximately 76 degrees, with a 20% precipitation chance. Thursday night brings a 70% chance of precipitation and a low near 55 degrees.
Friday 10/23: Scattered showers and thunderstorms remain possible, with a 40% precipitation chance and a high near 73 degrees. Friday night brings a 60% chance of precipitation, including showers likely before midnight, with temperatures falling near 50 degrees.
Saturday 10/24: Showers become likely, particularly during the afternoon, with thunderstorms also possible. The precipitation chance reaches 60%, while afternoon temperatures climb to approximately 69 degrees. Saturday night remains unsettled, with a 60% rain chance and a low near 46 degrees.
Sunday 10/25: A 40% chance of showers continues, with thunderstorms possible after noon. Skies become partly sunny, with a high near 68 degrees. Sunday night remains mostly cloudy, with a 40% shower chance and temperatures falling near 44 degrees.
Extended Outlook Favors Additional Moisture NOAA's Climate Prediction Center outlook for October 28 through November 3 favors above normal precipitation across New Mexico, suggesting the region could remain in a wetter than usual pattern heading toward November.
The corresponding temperature outlook favors above normal temperatures across much of New Mexico during that period, despite the cooler conditions expected this weekend.
These extended outlooks describe probabilities over several days rather than guaranteeing additional storms or specific rainfall totals.
What Residents Should Know Residents should monitor updated forecasts before weekend travel and outdoor activities, particularly Friday night and Saturday.
While the broader Southwest faces an elevated flash flood threat, the supplied Albuquerque forecast does not establish a city specific Flood Watch or Flash Flood Warning.
Drivers should avoid flooded roadways if localized flooding develops and remain alert for changing conditions during thunderstorms.
Updated forecasts and official weather alerts are available at weather.gov/abq.