The Albuquerque National Weather Service issued a Hazardous Winter Weather warning for Rio Rancho and Albuquerque.
The statement says:
WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 5 PM MST WEDNESDAY…
WHAT…Snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 2 and 4 inches, except 1 to 3 inches around the Albuquerque metro. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph. *
WHERE…Middle Rio Grande Valley including the Albuquerque Metro Area, West Central Highlands, San Francisco River Valley, Espanola Valley, Santa Fe Metro Area, Estancia Valley, Central Highlands, South Central Highlands, Northeast Highlands, and San Agustin Plains and Adjacent Lowlands.
WHEN…From Midnight tonight to 5 PM MST Wednesday.
IMPACTS…Plan on snow packed or icy road conditions. This includes portions of I-40. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the Wednesday morning commutes. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS… Slow down and use caution while traveling. For the latest road conditions, dial 511 or 1.800.432.4269, or visit http://nmroads.com.
Here is the forecast for Rio Rancho:
Tonight:
A chance of rain and snow between 11pm and 2am, then snow. Low around 26. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Total nighttime snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.
Wednesday:
Snow likely before 11am, then a slight chance of snow showers between 11am and 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 34. Breezy, with a southwest wind 20 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.
The Rio Rancho Observer will provide updates as they come.