Albuquerque, NM – Emergency officials across New Mexico are urging residents to begin preparing today for potential winter hazards, including freezing rain that can impact the state during temperature inversions and warm-front transitions. While snow is far more common in the region, the National Weather Service (NWS) warns that even a brief period of freezing rain can create dangerous travel conditions and cause damage to trees and powerlines.
According to NOAA, a thin glaze of ice can snap weakened branches and make major routes—including I-25, I-40, Tramway, and mountain passes—extremely hazardous. Eastern New Mexico, the Middle Rio Grande Valley, and high-elevation approaches can all see freezing rain when shallow cold air becomes trapped near the surface. With fluctuating temperatures expected this season, officials say today is the ideal time to take preventive steps.
According to the National Weather Service, residents should begin by trimming weak or damaged branches around homes, driveways, and walkways. These limbs often fall first once ice begins accumulating. NOAA also warns drivers not to raise windshield wipers before storms, noting that wipers can freeze to the glass and snap; keeping them lowered and covered is recommended.
Officials encourage residents to maintain at least a week’s supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, and essential prescriptions. Even brief icing can trigger outages and make travel difficult across Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Vegas, Clovis, and Raton. Residents are also urged not to park vehicles under trees where ice-loaded branches may fall unexpectedly.
To prepare for potential power loss, emergency managers recommend fully charging phones, flashlights, power banks, and essential devices today. Homeowners who rely on generators should safely store extra gasoline and test equipment before storms develop. Stocking rock salt or ice melt can also help reduce slip hazards around porches, patios, and walkways.
“Even occasional ice events can disrupt daily life across New Mexico,” the NWS said. “Preparing today is the best way to stay safe this winter.”
