ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – NOAA’s Winter 2025–2026 outlook, released Thursday, Oct. 16, shows a divided season for New Mexico — with a colder, snowier winter expected across the northern highlands and a drier, milder setup across the southern desert. The Climate Prediction Center’s data highlights above-normal precipitation for northern zones and below-normal rainfall farther south, driven by La Niña’s dominant influence through early spring.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, “Northern New Mexico should see multiple snow events this winter, particularly from late December through February.” The Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos, and Santa Fe could build solid snowpack, while Raton Pass and U.S. 64 may experience travel disruptions during Arctic outbreaks. Central regions like Albuquerque and Gallup may see brief snow bursts or icy mixes during stronger systems.
Southern New Mexico — including Las Cruces and Carlsbad — is expected to stay warmer and drier overall, though a few brief cold shots could bring isolated high-elevation snow to the Sacramento Mountains.
Forecasters warn that colder air may linger into March, with snow chances persisting in the north before spring warmth finally returns. Residents are urged to prepare for icy roads, subfreezing nights, and higher heating demand across northern and central areas.
For New Mexico, Winter 2026 looks like a tale of two climates — active and snowy in the north, but mild, dry, and wind-prone across the southern deserts.
