Albuquerque, NM — Unseasonably warm weather surged across New Mexico on Friday, December 19, with Albuquerque and several other cities setting new daily record high temperatures, according to the National Weather Service.
The National Weather Service in Albuquerque reported that Albuquerque International Sunport reached 66 degrees, breaking the previous daily record of 62 degrees set in 1978. The temperature marks one of the warmest December days recorded in the city and continues a broader trend of above-average temperatures across the Southwest.
Record highs were not limited to Albuquerque. Several other New Mexico locations also set new marks on Friday:
- Roswell Industrial Air Park: 79 degrees, breaking the previous record of 73 set in 2013
- Tucumcari Municipal Airport: 75 degrees, surpassing the former record of 70 from 2015
- Las Vegas Municipal Airport: 70 degrees, topping the 63-degree record set in 2024
- Gallup Municipal Airport: 64 degrees, breaking the 59-degree record from 1982
- Farmington Four Corners Regional Airport: 61 degrees, exceeding the 56-degree record set in 2023
Meteorologists say the record warmth is being driven by a persistent ridge of high pressure over the region, allowing mild air to dominate and limiting the intrusion of colder winter systems. Afternoon temperatures climbed 15 to 25 degrees above seasonal averages in some areas.
While the warmth may be welcome for outdoor activities and travel, forecasters note that prolonged above-normal temperatures can contribute to dry conditions, particularly heading into winter when snowpack is critical for water resources.
The National Weather Service says temperatures are expected to remain above average in the short term, though cooler conditions may return later next week as weather patterns shift.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated on local forecasts at weather.gov/abq, especially as December weather can change quickly in New Mexico.
