ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A stretch of unsettled fall weather is taking shape across New Mexico, with multiple rounds of rain and thunderstorms expected through early next week. The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a Flash Flood Watch for the Four Corners region, including Farmington and portions of the Navajo Nation, effective from noon Friday through Saturday evening.
According to NWS Albuquerque, subtropical moisture interacting with a slow-moving trough will trigger heavy downpours across the state. The highest rainfall totals are forecast for western and central New Mexico, where 0.5 to 1 inch of rain will be common and local totals may exceed 2 inches, especially along and south of I-40 near Socorro, Albuquerque, and Ruidoso. The risk of flash flooding increases Saturday and again Monday as storms repeatedly track over the same areas.
Flooding could develop quickly in normally dry arroyos, low-water crossings, and urban drainage zones. Rural roads and low-lying sections of U.S. 550, I-25, and Highway 60 could become impassable during heavier rain bursts. Motorists are urged to avoid flooded routes and heed the warning: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
Forecasters note the pattern will linger into Tuesday, with clearing and drier air arriving midweek. Residents are encouraged to monitor daily updates and stay alert for new advisories.
