Full Notification

A storm system crossing Colorado today will generate strong west to southwest winds over much of New Mexico. The strongest winds will occur in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the higher terrain of southwestern New Mexico, and around Lincoln County where gusts of 60 to 70 mph are likely. Strong winds are also expected over much of eastern New Mexico and the lower elevations of western New Mexico where gusts of 45 to 55 mph are likely. Patchy blowing dust and strong crosswinds will make driving hazardous with low visibility in dust prone locations. The combination of strong winds and snowfall over the Sangre de Cristo Mountains will result in areas of blowing and drifting snow with low visibility. Winds will turn to the northwest this evening as a cold front moves through the state. The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a High Wind Warning, which is in effect from 8 AM this morning to 9 PM MST this evening. The Wind Advisory is no longer in effect.

* LOCATION...Much of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

* WINDS...Southwest 35 to 45 mph with gusts of 60 to 70 mph.

* TIMING...Strong winds will develop through late this morning then peak around 3 pm before tapering off during the evening.

* VISIBILITY...The combination of strong winds, snow, blowing snow and drifting snow will reduce visibility below one half mile at times.

* LOCAL IMPACTS...Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to strong cross winds, blowing snow and drifting snow. Light weight and unsecured objects may blow around and become damaged. Tree limbs and power lines may be blown down.

* AFFECTED AREAS: SOUTHERN SANGRE DE CRISTOS ABOVE 9500 FEET ... EAST SLOPES SANGRE DE CRISTO MOUNTAINS ... NORTHERN SANGRE DE CRISTOS ABOVE 9500 FEET/RED RIVER

Instructions:

Remember, A High Wind Warning means damaging winds are imminent or highly likely. Sustained wind speeds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or more can lead to property damage.