Much of New Mexico sweltered under triple-digit temperatures Wednesday as a stubborn high-pressure system kept a firm grip on the state, and forecasters warned the dangerous heat is not going away anytime soon.
Highs climbed into the low 100s across many lower-elevation communities, with parts of eastern and southern New Mexico nearing or topping 105 degrees, according to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque. Forecasters said Albuquerque would reach about 98 degrees, while Roswell could climb to 106.
The heat comes alongside an active monsoon pattern that continues to spark scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms, especially across the mountains and the central and northern parts of the state. Some storms could bring heavy downpours and localized flash flooding, but many communities will not get enough rain to cool things down. Overnight temperatures are also remaining high, with lows peaking in the mid- to upper 70s.
Heat advisories remained in effect for parts of central, eastern and northwestern New Mexico. Forecasters expect moderate to major heat risk across many lower elevations through the rest of the week, with daytime highs continuing in the upper 90s and low 100s.
“High pressure is sitting right over New Mexico, bringing another round of scattered storms and very hot temperatures,” a KRQE meteorologist said during a Tuesday evening broadcast.
The forecast shows little relief through the weekend. Temperatures are expected to stay 5 to 10 degrees above normal, and some locations could approach or break daily temperature records. A brief dip of a few degrees is possible next week before the heat builds again.
Health officials are urging residents to drink plenty of water, avoid prolonged outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, and check on older adults, young children, neighbors and pets. People who work outside or engage in strenuous activities face the greatest risk of heat-related illness.
While hot weather combined with monsoon moisture is common in New Mexico during late July, meteorologists say this week’s heat wave is stronger and more persistent than usual.
