High Wind — Southwest Mountains, New Mexico

2023-02-14 · Southwest Mountains, New Mexico

Event narrative

A public weather station measured a 60 mph wind gust in Rainsville, NM.

Wider weather episode

The first of two sequential winter storm systems rolled through northern and central New Mexico on February 13, 2023 and February 14, 2023. Heavy snow was reported across much of the northern mountains of New Mexico, as well as a few isolated spots in and around the Santa Fe and Albuquerque metro areas by the morning of February 14, 2023. Snow accumulations reaching 10 to 11 inches were reported atop the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, while severe winter driving conditions were reported on U.S. Highway 64 in the Tusas Mountains. Strong westerly winds filled in quickly as the main upper level low exited the area during the morning of February 14, 2023. High winds with peak gusts of 60 to 70 mph were reported through the southwest mountains, Sandia and Manzano Mountains, and over a large area of the eastern plains.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1070403. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.