High Wind — Albuquerque Metro Area, New Mexico

2018-03-15 · Albuquerque Metro Area, New Mexico

Event narrative

Albuquerque Fire Department reported a bent light pole in the northeast heights from high winds. A wind gust up to 58 mph was reported in Placitas.

Wider weather episode

An upper level trough of low pressure approaching from Arizona forced strong winds aloft over New Mexico on the 15th. Meanwhile, a surface low pressure center deepening over southeastern Colorado during the afternoon hours allowed for a strong pressure gradient to develop across New Mexico. Widespread strong winds impacted the region with the focus for high winds along the central mountain chain. Many areas experienced west to southwest wind gusts between 45 and 55 mph. The strongest winds occurred around Clines Corners where a peak wind to 75 mph was reported. Some of the high wind gusts were aided by atmospheric mixing from virga and light rain showers. Areas of blowing dust were reported with this event across the region however no significant visibility restrictions or serious impacts occurred.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 735612. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.