Special Weather Statement issued January 5 at 3:30PM MST by NWS Albuquerque NM

After record breaking warmth over the last three days, winter will
return during the week ahead with light snow across northern and
central New Mexico and much colder temperatures. Total snow
accumulation of a couple inches will be possible Tuesday through
Wednesday along the east slopes of mountain ranges and eastward
onto western parts of the eastern plains. Locally heavier amounts
around several inches will be possible on mountains peaks and
east-facing slopes. The coldest lower elevation temperatures will
impact the area from Raton to Las Vegas and Clines Corners, where
subfreezing temperatures are forecast from Monday night until
Thursday or Friday afternoons. Low temperatures will bottom out
Wednesday night mostly in the single digits and teens. In
addition, east wind gusts from 35 to 45 mph are forecast below
canyons into the central valley Tuesday afternoon into Wednesday
morning.

Temperatures this cold will cause the snow to stick to road
surfaces making travel hazardous in many locations Tuesday through
Wednesday, including much of I-25 and I-40 across central and
eastern New Mexico. Additionally, very cold nighttime low
temperatures areawide, and the extended period of subfreezing
temperatures along the east slopes of the central mountain chain,
will necessitate precautions for people, plants, pipes, and pets.

Please monitor your favorite source of weather information for
updates on this evolving storm system, and keep an eye out for
potential Winter Weather Advisories from the National Weather
Service.