...EXTENDED PERIOD OF ACCUMULATING SNOW POSSIBLE FOR THE NORTHWEST
MOUNTAINS TONIGHT AND INTO EARLY NEXT WEEK...
An active weather pattern is expected through the middle of next
week and possibly for the rest of January. A parade of
disturbances will pass over northern and central New Mexico
beginning tonight and continuing through next Tuesday, with each
one bringing successively colder air to the region.
A moist southwest flow aloft will set up over northwest New Mexico
later today and become stronger tonight and Saturday. While snow
levels will remain relatively high, accumulating snow will be
possible over the Tusas Mountains, where a Winter Weather Advisory
is in effect for tonight through Saturday.
There may be a brief lull in any precipitation Saturday evening,
then accumulating snow is forecast to resume, becoming more
widespread over the west and north late Saturday night through
Sunday and returning again Monday into Tuesday. Snow levels will
progressively lower, as temperatures tumble to below normal
values.
Warmer and drier conditions are possible around the middle of
next week but another storm is possible late next week.
Those with recreational or travel plans over the higher terrain of
northwest New Mexico this weekend should be prepared to encounter
deteriorating and hazardous winter travel conditions. Stay alert
to forecast changes, especially regarding additional winter
weather watches, warnings or advisories.