Wind gusts of up to 50 mph could affect parts of New Mexico on Sunday, October 11, raising the risk of hazardous driving conditions and potentially disrupting the final Mass Ascension of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta as stronger southwest winds move across the state.
The stronger winds could create challenges for the fiesta’s final Mass Ascension, though light surface winds in the morning may allow organizers to hold at least a static balloon display.
Showers and thunderstorms spread across western, northern, and central New Mexico overnight, with precipitation continuing into Sunday morning in some areas. Local forecasts indicate Albuquerque will be mostly dry early in the day.
Conditions are expected to deteriorate in the afternoon, with widespread southwest winds of 25 to 40 mph across much of the state. Isolated areas could see gusts as high as 50 mph, and the chance of rain will continue into the evening.
The National Weather Service predicts mostly sunny conditions in the Albuquerque metropolitan area, with a high near 82°F. South winds of 20 to 25 mph could gust up to 35 mph, and there is a slight chance of showers or thunderstorms after 3 p.m.
The temperature is expected to fall to about 57°F overnight, with partly cloudy skies and a continued chance of showers in the early evening.
Western New Mexico may see stronger winds Sunday afternoon, with gusts reaching 35 to 45 mph as upper-level winds strengthen and a surface trough develops. Wind advisories are in effect for some areas near the Four Corners, including parts of the Black Mesa area, the Chinle Valley, and the Chuska Mountains.
The anticipated winds could lead to dangerous driving conditions, especially for people operating trucks, recreational vehicles, and other high-profile vehicles on open roads.
People are also advised to secure loose outdoor objects. Residents in fire-prone areas should stay alert for elevated fire-weather risks if humidity drops.
Breezy conditions are likely to continue into early next week before winds gradually decrease. Daytime highs are expected to remain mild, generally ranging from the 70s to the 80s.
Residents and visitors should monitor the latest forecasts and advisories from the National Weather Service office in Albuquerque as conditions change.
