Albuquerque, NM — A noticeable shift in temperatures is expected across New Mexico this week as cooler air pushes in from the north and east, bringing the coldest conditions of the fall season so far, according to weather officials.
Warm Start to the Week Before a Quick Drop
Monday began with sunshine and warmer-than-usual temperatures across much of the state, thanks to breezy upper-level winds and downslope warming affecting eastern areas. Some cloud coverage passing through southern Colorado and northern New Mexico brought brief shade, but most of the state enjoyed bright, dry skies.
Those breezy winds, however, are also responsible for the temporary warmup. Meteorologists say gusts late Monday could reach 30–40 mph in select spots as a backdoor cold front sweeps through eastern New Mexico overnight.
Coldest Air of the Season Arriving Midweek
A surge of much colder air will drop temperatures significantly beginning Tuesday, becoming even more widespread into Wednesday morning. Forecast models show this may be the coldest air mass New Mexico has experienced this fall.
High temperatures are expected to be cooler than anything seen yet this week, and overnight lows will be sharply lower in many communities.
In Albuquerque, the coldest morning is expected Wednesday, where temperatures are predicted to fall into the upper 30s — the first time this autumn the city could dip that low.
Communities in eastern New Mexico will feel the chill first, with cold air funneling south and west by late Tuesday, as per KRQE.
Freeze Watches and Warnings Issued
Due to the abrupt drop in temperatures, the National Weather Service (NWS) has begun issuing alerts across the region for potential subfreezing conditions.
Alerts expected or already issued include:
- Freeze Watches for large portions of eastern and central New Mexico from Tuesday night into Wednesday morning
- A Freeze Warning for the Española Valley from 3 a.m. to 9 a.m. Wednesday
- Freeze Watches already in place for parts of Montezuma and La Plata counties Monday night
These alerts indicate temperatures may reach 32°F or below, which can damage crops, pipes, and sensitive vegetation.
Fire Weather Conditions Still a Concern Early Week
Despite the colder air approaching, the pattern remains dry statewide. The combination of low humidity and breezy winds poses a fire danger, especially in areas that have missed recent moisture.
The NWS says the San Luis Valley in southern Colorado may experience elevated wildfire risks on Tuesday afternoon, prompting a Fire Watch for that region.
Halloween Forecast Looks Pleasant for Trick-or-Treating
The cooler mornings are expected to give way to milder afternoons by the end of the week. Sunshine remains the dominant trend, and by Halloween, parts of the state — including Albuquerque — could warm into the low 70s for afternoon highs.
That means chilly jackets might be needed early in the day, but comfortable weather may return just in time for Wednesday-night costumes and celebrations.
Residents Encouraged to Prepare for the Drop
Officials recommend New Mexicans take steps to protect:
- Outdoor plants and gardens
- Pets left outside overnight
- Sprinkler systems and exposed plumbing
Homeowners and farmers should remain aware of updated alerts as forecasters monitor the duration and strength of the cold air mass.
How are you preparing for the season’s first freezing temperatures? Share your plans and tips in the comments!
