Midland, Texas – A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for portions of southeast New Mexico and west Texas as forecasters warn of hazardous winter weather and dangerous cold later this week.
According to the National Weather Service in Midland/Odessa, the watch is in effect from Friday morning, Jan. 23, through late Saturday night, Jan. 24, 2026, covering the Permian Basin, Upper Trans-Pecos, Guadalupe Mountains, and surrounding areas, including Midland, Odessa, Carlsbad, Hobbs, Big Spring, Fort Stockton, and the Guadalupe Mountains.
Forecasters say moderate to heavy accumulations of ice, sleet, or snow are possible, particularly from Friday afternoon through early Sunday morning. The most significant impacts are expected in the Guadalupe Mountains and higher elevations, though hazardous conditions may extend across lower elevations of west Texas and southeast New Mexico.
Road conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly, with bridges and overpasses becoming especially slick and dangerous. The National Weather Service warns that significant ice accumulation could weigh down power lines and tree limbs, leading to widespread and potentially long-lasting power outages.
In addition to winter precipitation, dangerous cold temperatures are expected to develop Saturday night through Monday morning, increasing risks for exposed pipes, livestock, and those without adequate heating.
Residents are urged to monitor forecast updates closely as precipitation types and amounts become clearer. Officials advise delaying travel if possible and using extreme caution if travel is unavoidable.
The timing of the storm may impact weekend travel and overnight driving, particularly for commuters, energy workers, and long-haul drivers across the Permian Basin and surrounding regions.
Forecasters stress that details may change as the system approaches and that additional advisories or warnings could be issued.
