New Mexico Braces for Unseasonable Cold and Light Snow Showers

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico residents woke up to unseasonably cold temperatures and light snow showers on Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, as a weakening low-pressure system brought wintry conditions to much of the state.

The day began with snow falling in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Ruidoso, and Socorro, accompanied by chilly temperatures and mostly cloudy skies. Meteorologist Kira Miner of KOB provided a detailed forecast, warning of continued cold and scattered snow throughout the day.

Fresh snowfall has already blanketed the state’s mountains, with light snow also reported in the Rio Grande Valley, East Highlands, eastern Mimbres Valley, and far-southeast New Mexico. Western areas, however, remained drier. Air temperatures across the state were below freezing, with light winds making it feel even colder.

The weather system, originating from the Four Corners region, is drifting south-southeast, drawing moisture into a seasonably cold air mass. This has resulted in spotty snow drifting northeastward. Temperatures have ranged from a few degrees below zero in the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the teens, 20s, and lower 30s elsewhere.

Light snow and chilly rain showers are expected to continue drifting north-northeast, primarily affecting areas north of Interstate 40 and the Northwest Mountains. Below-normal temperatures will persist throughout the day, with highs ranging from the high teens to low 50s depending on elevation.

Precipitation is expected to taper off before midnight, paving the way for a gradual warming trend later in the week. Drier westerly winds are forecast to return, offering a brief respite before another wintry pattern arrives over the weekend.