Albuquerque, New Mexico – Winter weather is impacting northern New Mexico today, with snow favoring higher elevations before much colder temperatures arrive Sunday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, scattered rain and mountain snow showers are ongoing across western and central New Mexico, with snowfall favoring elevations above 8,500 feet. The Tusas Mountains and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains are expected to see the greatest impacts, particularly along mountain passes.
Snowfall rates are forecast to peak between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. today, before becoming lighter tonight and tapering off late Sunday morning. Travel impacts are most likely along U.S. 64, NM-17, NM-38, and NM-518, where periods of reduced visibility and slick road conditions are possible.
Rainfall amounts near the higher terrain are expected to range from 0.10 to 0.50 inches, while snow accumulations will be highest in the mountains. Areas below 8,500 feet may see rain or brief mixed precipitation, with limited accumulation.
Another round of winter weather is possible Monday, especially across southern New Mexico, where snow may develop just before sunrise and spread northward through the afternoon. While most locations are expected to see lighter amounts, forecasters note a 10 percent chance of higher-end snow totals in favored terrain.
Much colder air will arrive behind a cold front Sunday, bringing significantly lower temperatures Sunday night. Overnight lows are expected to drop into the single digits and teens, with sub-zero wind chills possible in northern and central mountain valleys. The combination of cold temperatures and wind may come as a sharp change after the past several weeks of milder weather.
Drivers traveling through mountain areas are urged to use caution, especially during periods of heavier snow today and tonight. Residents are encouraged to monitor forecast updates and prepare for colder conditions heading into early next week.
