Santa Fe, NM – A powerful winter storm is expected to blanket parts of northern and eastern New Mexico with heavy snow beginning Friday afternoon, with over 10 inches possible in higher elevations.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Friday afternoon through Saturday afternoon for the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, including both northern and southern ranges, as well as Johnson and Bartlett Mesas near Raton Pass. Snow totals could exceed 5 inches above 6,000 feet and 10 inches above 8,000 feet. Wind gusts may reach up to 50 mph, significantly reducing visibility to below 1/4 mile at times.
The storm is also expected to impact Glorieta Mesa, Union and Guadalupe counties, and sections of the Central and Northeast Highlands beginning Friday evening. Blowing snow and strong winds may lead to hazardous driving conditions, especially on mountain roads and I-40.
Travelers should monitor NMDOT road updates and delay unnecessary travel. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, prepare for power outages, and carry emergency kits if driving. This late-season storm marks a sharp return to winter for the region, following recent spring-like conditions.
