Winter Storm Brings Snow and Ice to Southeast New Mexico, Travel Impacts Expected
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A significant winter storm is poised to bring snow, ice, and hazardous travel conditions to south-central and southeastern New Mexico, following a recent period of unseasonably warm weather. The National Weather Service warns of potential blizzard conditions near the Mexican border and widespread icy roads, particularly impacting the Monday morning commute.
Storm System Details & Timeline
Winter weather conditions are expected to begin around 11 p.m. on Sunday, December 28th, and persist until 11 p.m. on Monday, December 29th. A Winter Weather Warning is in effect for Carlsbad and surrounding areas to the west and south, including Artesia, Alamogordo, and Cloudcroft. Winter Weather Advisories have been extended to Roswell, Ruidoso, and Hobbs, among other locations.
According to the National Weather Service, the heaviest snowfall is anticipated in the Sacramento Mountains, with accumulations potentially reaching up to seven inches. “This is a developing story,” a KOAT news representative stated, “and we will continue to follow developments closely.”
Regional Impacts and Forecasts
The storm’s impact will vary across the state. Southeastern and south-central regions will experience temperatures in the 30s, while the remainder of New Mexico will remain in the mid-40s.
Here’s a breakdown of expected conditions by region:
- Chavez, Otero, Lincoln, Eddy, and Lea Counties: These areas are expected to be hardest hit by snow, particularly later this morning and into the afternoon.
- Alamogordo and Las Cruces: Rain is forecast, with the possibility of a wintry mix.
- Silver City and Truth or Consequences: Similar to Alamogordo and Las Cruces, a mix of rain and wintry precipitation is possible.
- Northern New Mexico: The northern portion of the state will largely remain sunny, though temperatures will be chilly, peaking around 49 degrees Fahrenheit in Albuquerque.
- Albuquerque: Light rain is expected with a separate system arriving around New Year’s Eve, but rainfall amounts are not anticipated to be significant.
- Farmington: Dry conditions are expected through the week, with increasing rain chances as New Year’s Day approaches.
- Roswell: Snow is expected today, with a high of 35 degrees, followed by warming temperatures.
- Las Vegas: Dry conditions are expected to persist through New Year’s Day and potentially into the following weekend.
- Santa Fe: Dry conditions are expected this afternoon, with warming temperatures and increasing rain chances later in the week.
Looking Ahead: New Year’s Eve and Beyond
Another weather system is forecast to arrive around New Year’s Eve, primarily impacting western portions of the state. Models suggest approximately a quarter of an inch of rainfall is possible in these areas.
Temperatures will fluctuate in the coming days. Subfreezing temperatures are expected for several mornings, with afternoons reaching the 40s and 50s. By Wednesday and Thursday, temperatures are expected to climb into the low 60s in some areas.
Travelers are urged to monitor road conditions at NMRoads.com and exercise caution when commuting. The National Weather Service has issued a moderate winter risk for southeastern and south-central New Mexico due to this ongoing system.
