A series of slow-moving winter storms that had previously brought chaos to Southern California and dumped three feet of snow in northern Arizona has now made its way into New Mexico. As a result, a portion of U.S. Highway south of the Colorado line has been closed, and significant snowfall is expected in certain mountainous areas.
A winter storm warning has been issued for parts of north-central and northeast New Mexico, including the Santa Fe area, until 5 a.m. Sunday. Forecasters are predicting possible snowfall of up to 14 inches in the mountains to the east of Santa Fe and up to half a foot in the higher elevations to the west.
In response to the worsening weather conditions, Bandelier National Monument near Los Alamos has been temporarily closed by National Park officials. Additionally, the city of Albuquerque has closed most of its parks, golf courses, and recreation areas.
While most interstates and highways remain open, the New Mexico Department of Transportation has announced the closure of a 40-mile stretch of U.S. Highway 64 south of the Colorado line due to near-blizzard conditions and blowing snow.
The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has warned of widespread travel impacts from the winter weather, with difficult to impossible travel conditions expected along certain stretches of I-25 on Saturday night into Sunday. The I-40 corridor from Albuquerque east to the Texas line is also likely to be affected.
This storm system initially began moving out of California earlier in the week after causing power outages, street flooding, and destructive mudslides in Los Angeles. The heavy snowfall in Flagstaff, Arizona prompted the closure of several long stretches of interstate highways before the storm moved eastward on Friday.
As the storm system continues its slow progression through New Mexico, residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and exercise caution while traveling.
