Special Weather Statement issued March 11 at 3:17PM MDT by NWS Albuquerque NM

A potent weather system will approach from the west Thursday then
cross the region Friday through Saturday. Southwest winds will
increase Thursday with gusts of 40 to 50 mph expected over much
of central and eastern NM. Areas of blowing dust are likely with
low visibility at times, especially around Roswell. Low humidity
and warm temperatures with these winds will also elevate the risk
for rapid wildfire spread on Thursday. Snow is then expected to
spread into the northern and western high terrain Thursday night
and Friday. Areas of blowing snow, very low visibility, and slick
travel are likely to develop in the mountains. Very strong west
winds will then spread across all of New Mexico on Friday with
damaging wind gusts of 65 to 80 mph possible, mainly along and
east of the central mountain chain. Significant blowing dust is
possible again with low visibility, especially around Roswell.
Travel will be dangerous for high-profile vehicles, especially on
I-25 south of Raton Pass to near Las Vegas and on US285 from near
Santa Fe to Roswell due to extremely hazardous cross winds.
Damage may occur to light weight structures, roofs, fences, patio
furniture, and outdoor decorations. Power outages are likely
across eastern NM. Winds are expected to turn out of the
northwest Saturday and remain breezy for the entire area. Snow may
also continue across the higher terrain of northern and western
NM Friday night and Saturday.

Residents and travelers throughout New Mexico should remain alert
to the latest forecast information at weather.gov/abq or via your
preferred media outlet. Have alternative plans for travel and
outdoor activities as you prepare for this period of hazardous
weather.