Albuquerque, New Mexico – Wind gusts near 50 mph and critically dry air are making travel and outdoor activity hazardous across central New Mexico today. A Wind Advisory and Red Flag Warning remain in effect through Monday evening, especially impacting drivers along I-25 and communities in the Middle Rio Grande Valley.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, west winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph will persist until 7 p.m. MDT Monday. A Red Flag Warning—driven by low humidity levels near 10% and the same gusty winds—remains active through 8 p.m., elevating wildfire risk from the Sandia and Manzano Mountains to the West Central Basin and Range.
Local agencies urge residents to avoid burning outdoors and secure loose items. Tree limbs may fall, and crosswinds could affect high-profile vehicles. Travel on I-25 and I-40 may be difficult, especially around Albuquerque and nearby counties like Bernalillo, Valencia, and Torrance.
Looking ahead, Tuesday (May 20) will bring calmer but warm conditions, with a sunny high near 80°F and lighter northwest winds. By Wednesday, summer-like heat returns, with Albuquerque reaching 87°F and highs in the 90s Thursday and Friday.
Five-Day Forecast:
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 80°F.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 87°F.
- Thursday: Sunny, high near 92°F.
- Friday: Partly cloudy, high near 94°F.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 92°F.
