Albuquerque drivers should plan for wet and potentially hazardous commutes Friday evening as thunderstorms push across the metro and major highways. Lightning, heavy rain, and reduced visibility could create dangerous travel on I-25 and I-40 through late Friday night.
According to the National Weather Service, showers and storms are expected to intensify Friday afternoon with the greatest risk during the evening hours. Forecasters highlight a 70 percent chance of storms Friday night, dropping to 50 percent on Saturday. Southeast winds shifting north by nightfall may fuel stronger cells capable of producing localized flooding in low-lying areas.
Residents in Bernalillo County and surrounding communities should avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm periods. Keep devices charged, secure loose outdoor items, and use caution on wet roads. Emergency officials warn that flash flooding is possible in arroyos, especially near the Rio Grande.
Friday will reach a high near 88 degrees before storms arrive. Saturday remains unsettled with highs near 82 and scattered showers. By Sunday, conditions improve, bringing clear skies and warmer afternoons near 84. Sunshine should hold into early next week, although low chances of rain return by Monday evening.
The storm threat eases by late Saturday night, but more advisories could follow if rainfall totals exceed expectations. Drivers and outdoor planners should monitor updates closely.
Five-Day Forecast for Albuquerque, NM:
- Friday: High 88, scattered storms, 70% chance of rain.
- Saturday: High 82, partly sunny, 50% chance of storms.
- Sunday: High 84, sunny and calm.
- Monday: High 86, slight storm chance late.
- Tuesday: High 86, partly sunny, 30% chance of storms.
