The National Weather Service in Albuquerque issued heat advisories over most parts of New Mexico on July 31 amid triple-digit temperatures in many low-lying areas.
Meteorologists said advisories were expected to be in effect in central, southern and northwestern parts of the state. Temperatures reach 100 to 109 degrees. The hottest temperatures will be near Las Cruces, Deming and the Mesilla Valley, where it could climb between 105 and 109 degrees in an advisory to last until 9 p.m. MDT.
In the metro area of Albuquerque, the advisories will be in effect from noon until 8 p.m. MDT in the lower Rio Grande Valley near Socorro, the middle Rio Grande Valley, the northwest plateau including Farmington, and the Chaves County lowlands near Roswell. Temperature highs of 100 to 105 degrees will prevail. Parts of Eddy County, including the Artesia and Carlsbad areas, are under a similar advisory with temperatures to reach 106 degrees.
Sweltering conditions will continue into the weekend. Forecasters discuss the possibility of isolated afternoon and evening thunderstorms in southern and eastern sections of the state.
Officials advised residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during the hottest hours, seek air-conditioned spaces and check on elderly neighbors, children and pets. The weather service warned that heat-related illnesses are possible, particularly for the young, elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
