Sacramento, New Mexico – Dangerous winter weather is expected to impact the east slopes of the Sacramento Mountains beginning early Saturday, creating slick roads and difficult travel conditions through Sunday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in El Paso and Santa Teresa, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from 5 a.m. Saturday until 11 a.m. Sunday for the east slopes of the Sacramento Mountains below 7,500 feet. Snowfall totals of 4 to 8 inches are expected across most areas, with isolated locations picking up as much as 10 inches. Periods of rain may mix with freezing rain Saturday, increasing the risk of icy road surfaces.
Regional impacts will focus on travel through mountain communities including Mayhill, Piñon, and Sacramento. Roads are expected to become slick quickly, especially during heavier snowfall and any freezing rain. Elevated roadways, shaded mountain curves, and secondary roads will be particularly hazardous during the overnight and early morning hours.
Local officials urge residents and travelers to delay non-essential travel during the warning period. Anyone who must be on the roads should carry emergency supplies, including food, water, and a flashlight, and allow extra time to reach destinations. Checking road conditions through 511 before traveling is strongly advised.
The Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through late Sunday morning, with gradual improvement expected afterward. Additional advisories may be issued if snowfall totals increase or icy conditions persist.
