Santa Fe, New Mexico – Winter Storm Warnings are in effect across large portions of northern and western New Mexico, with heavy snow, blowing snow, and dangerous travel conditions expected through Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 2 a.m. to 8 p.m. MST Friday for Johnson and Bartlett Mesas, including Raton Pass, and Union County. Snow totals are expected to reach 2 to 4 inches, with 4 to 6 inches on Raton Pass. Wind gusts up to 40 mph may create periods of near whiteout conditions, particularly along I-25 and US 64/87.
Elsewhere, Winter Storm Warnings remain in effect until Friday morning for the Northern and Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Sandia and Manzano Mountains, Jemez Mountains, Tusas Mountains, and the Far Northwest Highlands. These areas can expect 3 to 6 inches of snow below 7,500 feet and 6 to 12 inches above 7,500 feet, with gusts up to 35 mph.
In western New Mexico, including the Chuska Mountains, West Central Mountains, and Southwest Mountains, snowfall totals of 2 to 6 inches are expected, with 6 to 12 inches above 8,000 feet. Whitewater Baldy Peak may receive 18 to 24 inches of snow.
Travel could be very difficult to impossible, with snow-packed roads, reduced traction, and blowing snow impacting the Thursday and Friday commute periods. Snow levels will lower from 6,000–7,000 feet to all elevations late today.
Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, carry emergency supplies, and check road conditions by calling 511 or visiting nmroads.com.
