SNOW, RAIN, AND WIND THURSDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH FRIDAY... A storm system crossing from the northwest will bring a mix of rain and snow, as well as strong winds, at the end of the work week. The storm system will begin to produce rain and mountain snow over northwest areas on Thursday afternoon. Precipitation will then become widespread over northern, western, and central areas Thursday night as a Pacific cold front crosses dropping the snow accumulation level to around 6500 feet. Rain and snow will then favor the northern and central mountains eastward on Friday as the storm system gradually exits the region. Storm total snow amounts look to reach a few to several inches across the high terrain, including Raton Pass which could receive up to a half foot of snow. The continental divide region of northwest New Mexico also looks favored for a few inches of snow, as well as northeast areas around Capulin. Complicating travel plans will be strong winds, especially from Raton Pass to Capulin where northerly wind gusts up to 50 mph will blow and drift the snow on Friday making travel hazardous on I-25 and other roads. Northwest wind gusts from 30 to 50 mph are also expected over western and southern areas late Thursday night through Friday, where blowing snow will mainly be a concern above 7500 feet, and also over the continental divide on I-40 and Highway 550. Those with outdoor or travel plans will need to monitor the latest weather forecasts, Warnings, and Advisories in order to stay ahead of this potentially dangerous winter storm. You may also monitor road conditions online at NMROADS.COM, via telephone at 1-800-432-4269, or by dialing 5-1-1 in New Mexico.