Albuquerque, NM – A Winter Weather Advisory goes into effect late Wednesday night for much of Northern New Mexico’s high terrain, where forecasters expect several inches of snow and difficult travel conditions through early Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, snowfall totals of 3 to 7 inches are expected above 8,500 feet across the Northern and Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Jemez Mountains, and the Tusas Mountains including Chama. Higher elevation peaks could receive up to 10 inches before the storm exits the region.
The advisory begins at 11 p.m. Wednesday and continues through 5 a.m. Friday, bringing prolonged impacts for both the Thursday morning and evening commute periods. Mountain roads, ski approaches, and high-country passes may quickly become snow-packed and slick as temperatures drop overnight and snow intensifies through Thursday.
Forecasters warn that tire traction will be significantly reduced on untreated roads, especially during the early morning hours. Drivers heading toward popular recreation areas—including Chama, the Jemez high country, and portions of the Sangre de Cristo range—should expect reduced visibility, slower travel, and potential delays.
State transportation officials urge motorists to extend following distances, reduce speeds, and check New Mexico road conditions via 511 or NMroads.com before traveling.
Snowfall is expected to taper Friday morning as the system exits into the central plains, but some higher elevations may still experience lingering slick spots where temperatures remain below freezing.
More updates are expected as the storm progresses across Northern New Mexico.
