Carlsbad, NM – Drivers and travelers in the Guadalupe Mountains face dangerous crosswinds by mid-morning Tuesday, with gusts strong enough to push vehicles off course and create hazardous travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Midland/Odessa, a High Wind Warning remains in effect from 9 a.m. MDT (10 a.m. CDT) through 10 p.m. MDT Tuesday across the Guadalupe and Delaware Mountains, including areas near Carlsbad Caverns National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Sustained southwest winds of 35 to 45 mph are expected, with gusts reaching up to 65 mph, especially at higher elevations.
Mountain routes near Pine Springs and Queen will see the most severe impacts, where exposed roadways can become extremely difficult to navigate. High-profile vehicles such as semi-trucks, campers, and vans face the greatest risk of losing control. Blowing debris and unsecured objects may also create sudden hazards.
Officials urge drivers to delay travel through mountain passes if possible and secure loose outdoor items. Aviation conditions will also be dangerous, with severe turbulence expected for low-flying aircraft.
Winds are expected to weaken late Tuesday night, but additional advisories could be issued if conditions persist.
