Albuquerque, NM – New Mexico residents face a challenging week ahead with a dangerous combination of hazardous heat, elevated fire risk, and the increasing threat of flash flooding from monsoon rains.
According to the National Weather Service, a moderate heat risk covers most of central and western New Mexico today and Friday, with some areas, particularly the Rio Grande and San Francisco River valleys, experiencing a spotty major heat risk. Temperatures will remain high between noon and 8 p.m. MDT on both days, impacting sensitive individuals and potentially affecting health systems and heat-sensitive industries.
Beyond the heat, a high fire danger looms for Friday and Saturday afternoons and early evenings across Northwest and West Central New Mexico, including Farmington, Shiprock, and Gallup. Very dry and windy conditions, combined with extremely dry vegetation, will allow fires to start easily and spread rapidly. Residents should avoid open flames, keep vehicles off dry grass, and properly discard cigarettes to prevent new fire ignitions.
Looking ahead, monsoon moisture increases next week, bringing heavy rainfall and an elevated flash flooding risk, especially from Sunday through Wednesday. Flash flooding is a particular concern for central and eastern New Mexico, including burn scar locations. Total precipitation could range from 0.5 to 1 inch across much of the state, with isolated higher amounts of 2-3 inches possible. Warnings remain in effect, and residents should monitor local alerts closely.
