ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (June 4, 2025) — Residents across northern and central New Mexico should prepare for another round of storms Wednesday, bringing the risk of heavy rainfall and large hail, particularly along and north of I-40. While Tuesday saw only scattered storm activity, conditions are expected to intensify overnight and into the early afternoon hours.
Storms Target Northern Half of the State Wednesday
- Current Conditions:
- Fewer storms Tuesday afternoon, though Farmington and western regions experienced bursts of heavy rain.
- Colliding outflow boundaries are triggering rainfall in the Albuquerque Metro tonight.
- Showers are ongoing across western, central, and northern New Mexico.
- Forecast for Wednesday:
- Morning: Several rounds of rain through mid-morning across the northern half of the state.
- Afternoon: Daytime heating will fuel more storms, primarily east and northeast-bound, targeting areas along and north of I-40.
- Threats include:
- Heavy rainfall
- Large hail
- Isolated flash flooding
- Evening: Storms wind down in the west but redevelop across eastern New Mexico before drying out overnight.
What Was Found?
- Radar Data:
- Rain bands forming along boundary collisions, particularly affecting central and western NM.
- Areas like Farmington, Santa Fe, and Taos are under heavier cloud cover and rain bands tonight.
- Meteorological Analysis:
- Increasing moisture convergence and lift from outflow boundaries are leading to intensified localized storm cells.
“We’re seeing unstable air masses fueled by daytime heating and overnight boundary collisions,” said NOAA meteorologist Jessica Randle. “This combination sets the stage for locally intense rainfall and potential hail.”
Safety Measures and Monitoring
- Public Guidance:
- Be weather aware, especially if traveling along I-40 or in northern mountain regions.
- Avoid flood-prone roadways and never drive through flooded areas.
- Secure outdoor items that could be damaged or moved by gusty winds or hail.
- Weather Monitoring:
- The National Weather Service (NWS) is issuing localized warnings and real-time radar alerts via its website and app.
- Flash Flood Watches may be posted in vulnerable northern zones.
What’s Next for New Mexico?
- Short-Term Outlook:
- Thursday through Saturday: Drier and hotter weather for most areas, with spotty storms in the northern mountains and far eastern New Mexico.
- Temperatures will rise statewide, prompting heat advisories in some locations.
- Extended Forecast:
- Sunday: Storm chances begin to return to eastern NM, spreading into the Rio Grande Valley early next week.
- Hot conditions continue despite rain returning.
