Winter Weather Hazards

Winter Weather Awareness

Main header with picture of winter scene

We hope you will take the time to review our safety information and keep up with the latest forecasts , snow advisories and winter weather warnings. We present information on the various types of precipitation that occur in the winter months and how they form and we show the climatology of various snow amounts for several locations across New Mexico.

The complex terrain of New Mexico, ranging from the eastern plains, high mountains across the northern and western regions, to the Rio Grande valley, combines to create weather regimes that change quickly over relatively short distances. Highway travelers may find themselves first in light snow or rain then suddenly in heavy snow as the highway climbs through a mountain pass. The weather may be relatively mild and sunny along the Rio Grande valley from Socorro to Albuquerque, with near blizzard conditions found across the high plains east of the central mountain chain. Winter weather can be deadly if you fail to take proper precautions. Be sure to check out the information available on our web site to become familiar with winter weather safety facts, products, and climate.

The key to avoiding serious injury or death during a major winter storm is knowing the safety rules to survive cold weather.
Staying informed of forecasts and warnings will let you prepare early for harsh winter weather conditions.
How do the various forms of winter precipitation develop when when temperatures at or above the surface dip below freezing?
How much snow can we expect at specific sites in New Mexico in an average year?

Additional safety information, plus help in preparedness planning, is available by contacting the Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the following numbers:

	Northern and Eastern New Mexico (NWS Albuquerque NM) Kerry Jones - Warning Coordination Meteorologist (505) 244-9150 Ext. 223
	South Central New Mexico (NWS El Paso TX) John Fausett - Warning Coordination Meteorologist (575) 589-4088 Ext. 223
	Southeastern New Mexico (NWS Midland TX) Pat Vesper - Warning Coordination Meteorologist (432) 563-5901 Ext. 223

More winter weather photos are available on our website (bottom left on our homepage) or by clicking below:

Winter Photo Archive

Photo by Seth Bullington

National Weather Service Weather Forecast Office