New Mexico greets the morning with muted clouds drifting above Albuquerque, the air cool but calm as holiday travel resumes across central corridors. Pavement stays dry for now, and the city enjoys a brief stretch of December warmth before winter hints return late in the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service, Albuquerque remains mostly dry through Friday, with highs climbing into the low 60s under mostly sunny skies. Winds stay light, making for easy driving along I-25 and I-40 as post-Christmas traffic gradually picks up. Morning lows dip into the 30s, but freezing concerns remain limited through Friday night.
Saturday marks a subtle change. Clouds thicken, and temperatures still reach the low 60s, though sunshine becomes filtered. By Saturday night, colder air slides into the Rio Grande Valley. A slight chance of rain and snow develops after evening hours, especially in higher elevations and along the East Mountains. Roads should remain mostly wet, but bridges could cool quickly.
Sunday brings clearer skies during the day, with highs near 53 degrees. Travel conditions improve briefly, offering a favorable window for return trips. However, winter does not stay quiet for long. By Sunday night, another weak system introduces a renewed chance of rain changing to snow, with lows falling near 21 degrees. Light accumulation is possible, mainly north and east of the metro.
Drivers planning late-night travel should remain alert. Even light snow can create slick spots, particularly on elevated roadways and less-traveled routes. Keep coats, windshield fluid, and extra time in your plans.
Looking ahead to Monday, sunshine returns with highs near 48 degrees. Cold mornings persist, dipping into the 20s, reinforcing a winter pattern settling in for the final stretch of December.
Meteorologists continue monitoring the timing of weekend precipitation. Conditions may change quickly after sunset. Stay weather-aware, especially if traveling late Sunday, as Albuquerque transitions from mild holiday warmth back toward winter footing.
