Santa Fe, New Mexico – Winter is not ready to loosen its grip across northern New Mexico, as Groundhog Day tradition and long-range climate signals both point to a delayed transition into spring. Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow Monday morning, signaling six more weeks of winter and pushing expectations for a more reliable warm-up closer to mid-March.
According to the National Weather Service, northern New Mexico falls into an “equal chances” category for temperatures from February through April. That outlook keeps the potential for late-season cold snaps, mountain snow, and sharp temperature swings firmly in place. Santa Fe, Taos, Española, and Los Alamos could all see additional snow events and below-freezing nights linger into March, while higher terrain in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains remains vulnerable to prolonged winter conditions.
Precipitation trends support continued variability. According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, parts of the Southwest, including northern New Mexico, are expected to see near to above-normal precipitation through early spring. That favors additional mountain snowfall and occasional valley rain or snow events, which can impact travel along I-25, U.S. 84/285, and mountain passes, especially during colder systems.
While the Farmers’ Almanac notes spring officially begins Friday, March 20, and highlights a total lunar eclipse early Tuesday, March 3, winter weather influences may persist beyond those milestones. Northern New Mexico residents are encouraged to remain winter-ready, monitor NMDOT road conditions, and prepare for changing weather, as snow, cold, and travel impacts may continue well into early spring.
