High Wind Warning Issued for Northern and Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a High Wind Warning for the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This alert indicates that a significant wind event is likely to occur, posing risks to property and travel.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers the following regions in New Mexico:

• Northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains
• Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers in the affected areas should take the following precautions:

• Prepare for potential power outages due to downed lines.
• Secure outdoor furniture and loose objects that could become projectiles.
• Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high-profile vehicle.
• Monitor local weather updates for changes in conditions.

Expected Conditions

Meteorologists expect sustained west winds between 30 and 40 mph. Peak wind gusts are forecasted to reach up to 65 mph. Additionally, a few inches of snow are expected to accumulate. The combination of strong winds and fresh snowfall will likely create periods of blowing snow, which may significantly reduce visibility and impact travel.

Timeline

The High Wind Warning is scheduled to go into effect at 11:00 AM MST on Wednesday, February 18. The warning is currently set to remain in effect until 5:00 AM MST on Thursday, February 19.