MCHS– Rain is expected to leave southern New Mexico this weekend, giving way to milder weather. Colder air is expected early next week, with light snow in the northern highlands.
Clouds came into southern New Mexico today, bringing a few scattered showers early in the morning. Most of the rain has stopped this afternoon, but clouds have kept temperatures significantly colder in the state’s southern half. Tonight, fog is forming near the Sacramento Mountains and may continue to form around the east slopes of the Sandias/Manzanos as far as Santa Rosa and Las Vegas.
Freezing fog is probable, resulting in a few frozen patches to begin the day. A few scattered showers will move into southeastern New Mexico to begin the day but will dissipate by midday. Drier weather returns on Saturday afternoon, along with warmer temperatures. Temperatures will rise even higher on Sunday, as westerly winds strengthen over the state.
Next Monday, a fast-moving storm system will hit New Mexico. This storm’s precipitation continues to fall, with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains offering the biggest potential of snowfall. Light snow is also expected throughout the peaks of the other northern ranges. Snowfall is expected to be minimal, with a maximum accumulation of 3 inches.
A few flurries or a dusting of snow are also likely along the I-25 corridor in northern and east-central New Mexico. Temperatures will be lower on Tuesday afternoon as drier air comes in. The season’s coldest air will sweep on Wednesday morning.
A warming trend will begin Wednesday afternoon, with sunny and dry weather continuing through the end of next week. Temperatures will return to near average for this time of year by next Thursday.
