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.