High Wind — Albuquerque Metro Area, New Mexico

2018-03-18 · Albuquerque Metro Area, New Mexico

Event narrative

High winds toppled a large cinder block wall in Rio Rancho.

Wider weather episode

A potent upper level trough raced eastward across New Mexico with an associated sharp cold front. A deepening surface low pressure center over southeastern Colorado produced widespread strong southwest winds over central and eastern New Mexico ahead of the cold front. As the cold front plowed eastward across the state winds shifted to the west and high winds continued to impact the area behind the front. Enough moisture was present along the front to produce rain and snow showers, which enhanced high winds in several areas. Many areas of eastern New Mexico saw peak wind gusts between 60 and 70 mph while central and western New Mexico experienced gusts between 50 and 60 mph. Some wind damage was reported with this event along with areas of blowing dust.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 736864. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.