Weather
New Mexico Flood Risk Oct. 29-30: Up to 3 Inches of Rain Possible
Albuquerque, NM – New Mexico residents face an increasing threat of heavy rainfall and localized flash flooding Thursday, Oct. 29, and Friday, Oct. 30, as multiple storm systems move across the state,
By Marcus Hale · 2026-10-28T13:07:30.606Z
Albuquerque, NM – New Mexico residents face an increasing threat of heavy rainfall and localized flash flooding Thursday, Oct. 29, and Friday, Oct. 30, as multiple storm systems move across the state, potentially affecting roads, low water crossings and flood prone communities.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, an initial storm system will bring widespread rain to southern and southeastern New Mexico beginning Thursday morning, with rainfall coverage and intensity expected to peak Thursday night.
Heavy Rainfall Could Reach 3 Inches Forecast rainfall totals range from approximately 0.5 to 1 inch in portions of east central New Mexico to 1 1.5 inches near Artesia and 1.5 2 inches farther southeast near the Texas border.
The NWS also identifies a 10% chance of 2 3 inches of rainfall in portions of east central and southeastern New Mexico.
Communities near Roswell, Carlsbad, Hobbs, Artesia and Clovis could experience periods of rain, although amounts will vary by location.
The Weather Prediction Center places portions of southeastern New Mexico under a slight risk of excessive rainfall Thursday, indicating at least a 15% chance of flash flooding within 25 miles of a location.
Flood Risk Expands Friday By Friday, the marginal excessive rainfall risk expands across much of New Mexico, including areas around Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Gallup, Roswell and Las Cruces.
Another Pacific storm is expected to arrive late Saturday night and continue into Monday, bringing additional rain, embedded thunderstorms and mountain snow above 10,000 feet.
The NWS warns that localized flash flooding could cause rises in creeks, streams and potentially larger rivers.
Drivers should avoid flooded roads and low water crossings, particularly during periods of heavier rainfall.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts at weather.gov/abq, as rainfall amounts and flood risk areas may change.