Albuquerque, New Mexico – Breezy to gusty north winds are creating nuisance crosswind conditions across parts of northern and eastern New Mexico Thursday, potentially affecting travel and outdoor activities.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, winds will increase late this morning through early afternoon behind a weak cold front, particularly across far northeast and east-central New Mexico. Peak wind gusts are expected to range from 25 to 35 miles per hour, with locally higher gusts possible in exposed areas.
The strongest impacts are anticipated along major travel corridors including Interstate 25, Interstate 40, US-550, and US-84, where west-to-east oriented roadways may experience sudden crosswinds. High-profile vehicles such as trucks, vans, and RVs could have difficulty maintaining control, especially during peak wind periods.
Forecasters note that unsecured outdoor objects may be blown around, creating additional hazards near roadways and in open areas. In northeast New Mexico, brisk winds will also contribute to cooler morning wind chills, with temperatures feeling like the mid to upper teens early Thursday.
While conditions will remain breezy today, a gradual warming trend is expected to develop through Monday. High temperatures will slowly climb above seasonal averages before another change arrives midweek.
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service reports that a disturbance moving south across the state Wednesday could bring colder temperatures along with low rain and snow chances late Tuesday into Wednesday, particularly for northern and eastern portions of New Mexico. At this time, precipitation amounts appear limited, but residents are encouraged to monitor future forecasts.
For commuters, students, and delivery drivers, the most noticeable impacts today will occur during late-morning and lunchtime hours, especially along exposed highways and open terrain.
Drivers are advised to use caution, keep both hands on the wheel, and secure loose items. Conditions are expected to improve later this afternoon as winds gradually diminish.
