A golden glow spreads across the Sandia Mountains this morning as Albuquerque starts another crisp, calm day near 30°F. The air feels sharp but still, a familiar early-December mix that locals know well — cold enough for frost on windshields, warm enough for light jackets by lunch.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, a ridge of high pressure will dominate the region through the week. Highs rise steadily into the mid- to upper 60s by Thursday, offering a stretch of classic desert sunshine. Winds remain light, under 10 mph, with no rain or snow expected across the I-25 corridor or foothill communities.
Expect clear skies and dry air to persist through the weekend, but bundle up for frosty mornings. Overnight lows will hover between 28°F and 35°F, dipping close to freezing in outlying areas like Rio Rancho and Edgewood. Drivers should watch for patchy frost or thin ice on shaded roads early, especially near overpasses and canyons.
The mild pattern favors holiday travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, with ideal conditions for hiking, decorating, and shopping across the metro. However, long-range models hint that colder air could push south into New Mexico by mid-December, signaling a possible winter pattern shift before Christmas.
Five-Day Outlook (Albuquerque, NM):
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 59°F, low 34°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high 64°F, low 36°F.
- Thursday: Sunny, high 67°F, low 35°F.
- Friday: Sunny, high 65°F, low 33°F.
- Saturday: Sunny, high 62°F.
