Carlsbad, NM – A powerful wind event is expected to impact parts of West Texas and Southeast New Mexico Tuesday, prompting a High Wind Watch for mountainous and adjacent plains areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Midland/Odessa, the alert begins Tuesday morning and remains in effect through late Tuesday night. Winds in the Guadalupe Mountains could reach sustained speeds of 45 to 55 mph, with gusts peaking at 75 mph. In lower elevations, such as the Eddy County Plains and parts of Lea County, winds may reach 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 60 mph.
The affected areas include Carlsbad, Hobbs, Artesia, Alpine, and surrounding high terrain such as Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Davis Mountains.
Travel may become hazardous for high-profile vehicles, especially along U.S. Highway 62/180 near Pine Springs and other mountain passes. Blowing dust could reduce visibility, and scattered power outages are possible due to downed lines or weakened structures.
Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel during peak wind hours, and monitor local updates. Motorists, especially those in large vehicles, should consider delaying travel through mountain corridors until winds subside early Wednesday.
