Santa Fe, N.M. – Drivers and hikers in northern New Mexico’s high country should prepare for heavy snowfall and dangerous travel through early Wednesday, as a potent storm moves into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 6 p.m. Sunday through 6 a.m. Wednesday. The Northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains are expected to receive between 2 and 5 inches of snow, with peak elevations potentially seeing up to 12 inches.
Travel conditions may rapidly deteriorate, especially on mountain roads and passes like NM-518 and Forest Road 76. Some routes could become impassable due to snow-packed surfaces and whiteout conditions. The advisory warns that road closures and significant travel delays are possible.
Outdoor plans in areas like Truchas Peaks, Wheeler Peak, and the Pecos Wilderness should be postponed or adjusted. The combination of snowfall and high winds could also increase avalanche risk in backcountry zones.
This system marks an unusual but not unprecedented May snow event for northern New Mexico. Conditions will remain hazardous through Wednesday morning, with updates likely as new snowfall totals are reported. Travelers are urged to check nmroads.com or call 511 before heading out.
