The National Weather Service forecast thunderstorms across much of New Mexico through the coming week, with the risk of damaging winds, heavy rain, hail, and flash flooding. Forecasters warned that rain-soaked ground and intermittent rains could trigger localized flooding, although there will be a brief lull in rainfall on Sunday and Monday.
The agency said rain showers and thunderstorms moved south across the state on Saturday, with the eastern part of the state having the greatest chances for heavy rain.
The agency issued a flood watch from noon Saturday through midnight for parts of southern Lincoln County and areas around Otero County.
Forecasters also discussed the possibility of thunderstorms developing near the Albuquerque metropolitan area Saturday evening, with strong wind gusts possible. They expect rain chances to decrease on Sunday and Monday, with only isolated rain showers and thunderstorms across much of the state. Temperatures in the Albuquerque area could climb to near 100 degrees by Monday.
Despite the temporary break in widespread rainfall, the agency warned that flash flooding will remain possible in areas that receive repeated rounds of thunderstorms or experience multi-day heavy rain.
Forecasters said daily afternoon thunderstorms are likely to continue through at least the next seven days, with frequent lightning, gusty winds, hail and localized heavy rainfall.
