Weather
New Mexico Weather Alert Oct. 15–16: Wind Gusts Up to 65 MPH
ALBUQUERQUE, NM — Parts of central New Mexico face potentially damaging winds Thursday night into Friday morning, with gusts reaching 65 mph in some locations and possible power outages across the Alb
By Cameron Hayes · 2026-10-14T10:45:57.916Z
ALBUQUERQUE, NM — Parts of central New Mexico face potentially damaging winds Thursday night into Friday morning, with gusts reaching 65 mph in some locations and possible power outages across the Albuquerque metro area.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, a High Wind Watch remains in effect from 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, until noon Friday, Oct. 16, covering the Middle Rio Grande Valley, Lower Rio Grande Valley, South Central Highlands and Upper Tularosa Valley.
Forecasters warn that sustained easterly winds of 35 to 45 mph, with gusts potentially reaching 65 mph, could damage trees and power lines.
The strongest gusts are expected near canyon openings in eastern Albuquerque and around Carrizozo, where winds could become particularly intense.
Damaging Winds Could Disrupt Travel and Power The National Weather Service warns that high profile vehicles could encounter difficult driving conditions during the watch period.
Strong crosswinds may create problems for trucks, recreational vehicles and other vehicles vulnerable to sudden gusts.
Power outages are also possible if damaging winds bring down trees or electrical lines.
Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor furniture, decorations and other objects before Thursday evening.
The High Wind Watch indicates conditions are favorable for potentially damaging winds but does not guarantee that the strongest gusts will occur at every location.
Albuquerque's city specific forecast calls for easterly winds increasing to 25 to 30 mph Thursday evening, with gusts as high as 40 mph. Stronger gusts approaching 65 mph are possible elsewhere within the broader watch area, particularly near canyon openings.
Cooler Friday Before Weekend Warmup Temperatures will also change as the wind event moves through.
Albuquerque is expected to reach approximately 74 degrees Thursday before cooling to around 64 degrees Friday.
The cooler conditions should continue Saturday, with mostly sunny skies and temperatures near 64 degrees.
By Sunday, temperatures should recover to around 70 degrees, followed by additional warming Monday and Tuesday.
The extended forecast indicates largely dry conditions through Monday, with a slight chance of showers developing Tuesday.
Residents should continue monitoring National Weather Service updates for possible changes to the High Wind Watch, including any upgrade to a High Wind Warning.
Five Day Weather Outlook: Oct. 16–20 Temperatures below represent National Weather Service forecasts for Albuquerque, New Mexico. The High Wind Watch covers a broader portion of central New Mexico.
Friday, Oct. 16: Sunny and cooler, with a high near 64°. The High Wind Watch remains in effect until noon MDT. Partly cloudy overnight, with a low around 42°. Saturday, Oct. 17: Mostly sunny, with a high near 64°. Mostly cloudy overnight, with a low around 46°. Sunday, Oct. 18: Mostly sunny and warmer, with a high near 70°. Mostly clear overnight, with a low around 48°. Monday, Oct. 19: Sunny, with temperatures reaching approximately 74°. Mostly clear overnight, with a low around 52°. Tuesday, Oct. 20: Mostly sunny, with a 20% chance of showers. High near 75°. Overnight forecast details unavailable.