A strong storm system moving through the Southwest is bringing a higher risk of severe thunderstorms to New Mexico on Thursday and Friday, according to the Storm Prediction Center.
On Thursday, forecasters placed western New Mexico under a Slight Risk, level 2 out of 5, for severe thunderstorms that could bring large hail, damaging winds and tornadoes. East-central and southeastern Arizona have the highest chance for tornadoes, but severe storms are expected to move east into western and possibly central New Mexico during the afternoon and evening. The SPC said the most intense cells were forecast across parts of Arizona and western New Mexico.
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The threat should lessen by Friday, when western and central New Mexico will be under a Marginal Risk, level 1 out of 5, with a chance for isolated supercells, severe hail, damaging winds and possibly a tornado.
The system is also carrying a lot of moisture. The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a Flood Watch for western and central New Mexico, where several rounds of showers and thunderstorms are expected. Forecasters urge residents to have several ways to get warnings and never to drive through flooded roads.
What's Next
The threat is expected to lessen Friday, with a Marginal Risk for western and central New Mexico.
Why It Matters
Heavy rain could cause flash flooding, especially in dry washes, slot canyons and recent burn scars.
Editor’s note: Updated Nov. 1, 2026. This story was revised to cite the NOAA Storm Prediction Center and National Weather Service forecasts it is based on. Learn how Brant.One reports in our editorial standards.
