Chama, New Mexico – Heavy snow and 45 mph wind gusts are creating dangerous travel conditions in the Tusas Mountains, with impacts continuing until 5 p.m. MST today.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the Tusas Mountains including Chama, where 3 to 6 inches of snow is expected below 8,500 feet and up to 11 inches across the peaks and higher west-facing slopes.
Blowing snow will reduce visibility along U.S. Highway 64 and surrounding mountain roads. Tire traction will drop quickly on untreated surfaces as snowfall continues through the afternoon.
Travel could become very difficult above 8,500 feet.
Gusts up to 45 mph will create drifting snow in exposed areas, especially along ridge tops and open stretches west of Chama. Road conditions may change rapidly through the midday hours.
Drivers should slow down, increase following distance, and check nmroads.com or call 511 before traveling through the mountains.
Snowfall tapers late this afternoon, but slick and snow-packed roads may linger into early evening. The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 5 p.m. MST today.
