Cloudcroft, New Mexico – Wind gusts up to 60 mph will rake the Sacramento Mountains and surrounding foothills beginning at 8 a.m. Friday, creating dangerous crosswinds through late afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in El Paso/Santa Teresa, a Wind Advisory remains in effect from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. MST for the Sacramento Mountains, including Cloudcroft, Mescalero, Timberon and Apache Summit, where sustained west winds of 30 to 40 mph will gust between 50 and 60 mph. Nearby areas such as Otero Mesa, the Eastern Black Range foothills and White Sands National Park will see winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 55 mph.
High-profile vehicles traveling along U.S. 82 near Cloudcroft and U.S. 70 through the Tularosa Basin may encounter strong crosswinds, especially along east-facing slopes and mountain passes. Gusty conditions could snap tree limbs and lead to isolated power outages.
Residents should secure outdoor items and avoid parking near large trees. Drivers are urged to slow down and maintain firm control of steering wheels.
Winds will begin easing after sunset, but breezy conditions could linger into the evening. Additional advisories are possible if gusts trend higher than expected.
