An arctic cold front will arrive in eastern NM late Friday,
plummeting temperatures and marking the start of a long-duration
cold event. A quick-hitting winter storm on Saturday and Saturday
night will likely create at least minor travel impacts due to
snow and blowing snow in northeastern NM, including at Raton Pass.
A second, stronger arctic front arrives in eastern NM Monday,
further dropping temperatures. Wind chills may drop as low as -20F
Monday and Tuesday mornings, creating a high risk of frostbite
and hypothermia. An additional round of snow Monday into Tuesday
may be more widespread, but will still favor areas east of the
central mountain chain with the potential for more significant
adverse travel impacts. Residents of central and northern New
Mexico should prepare for an extended period of subfreezing
temperatures beginning Saturday that will necessitate precautions
for people, plants, pipes, and pets.
Monitor NOAA weather radio, weather.gov/abq or your local media
for the latest updates on this situation. For the latest road
conditions, dial 511 or 1.800.432.4269, or visit nmroads.com.