Full Notification

Heavy snow and blowing snow are expected tonight into Friday morning as a storm system crosses from the west with a rich tap of sub-tropical Pacific moisture. The snow level will be around 8,000 feet with periods of whiteout conditions as wind gusts reach 50 mph on the peaks above Chama and Tierra Amarilla, Jemez, Sangre de Cristo and Chuska mountains. Gusts should only reach 40 mph below 9,000 feet west of the Tusas Mountains. Wind chill temperatures in the teens are expected. The heaviest snowfall will occur tonight, but blowing snow will persist into Friday morning with light additional accumulations.

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 5 to 14 inches above 8000 feet with up to 25 inches possible above 9000 feet. West winds gusting as high as 45 mph.

* WHERE...San Juan/Tusas mountains, Northern Sangre de Cristos above 9500 feet including Red River and Southern Sangre de Cristos above 9500 feet.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to noon MST Friday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches.

* AFFECTED AREAS: SOUTHERN SANGRE DE CRISTOS ABOVE 9500 FEET ... NORTHERN SANGRE DE CRISTOS ABOVE 9500 FEET/RED RIVER ... SAN JUAN MOUNTAINS

Instructions:

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for New Mexico can be obtained by calling 5 1 1 or 1-800-432-4269.