High Wind — Westcentral Mountains, New Mexico

2009-03-22 · Westcentral Mountains, New Mexico

Event narrative

A retired NWS Employee northeast of Quemado estimated wind gusts between 50 and 60mph between 430 and 930pm MST. Estimated sustained winds between 40 and 50mph were also reported.

Wider weather episode

A strong upper level system moving across the central Rocky Mountains resulted in very strong winds over portions New Mexico over a two day period. On the 22nd, the strongest winds were noted across western New Mexico. However, as the upper level system moved eastward early on the 23rd, the strongest winds shifted to areas along and east of the central mountain chain. Wind gusts up to 70 mph were reported near Las Vegas.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 151422. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.