After a Mild Start, More Severe Winter Weather Could Be Ahead for Torrance County
While the initial phase of this weekend’s winter storm brought relatively modest snowfall to parts of Torrance County, more severe weather is expected as the system continues through Sunday, according to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque.
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 8 AM MST Sunday, January 25, 2026, for much of central and east-central New Mexico, including Torrance County, the Estancia Valley, and the Mountainair area. Forecasters expect additional snow accumulations of 2 to 6 inches, with the most significant impacts anticipated overnight into Sunday morning.
Although early snowfall amounts were manageable in some locations, conditions are expected to deteriorate as bitterly cold air settles in behind the storm. Travel is forecast to become very difficult to impossible, particularly along Interstate 40 from Tijeras Canyon east to Santa Rosa and the Texas border. Rural highways and county roads in Torrance County may also become hazardous or impassable.
The National Weather Service warns that the weight of accumulating snow could stress the power grid, increasing the risk of power outages, especially in eastern portions of the state. In addition, dangerously cold temperatures are expected to follow the snowfall. The coldest conditions are forecast for Sunday and Monday mornings, when much of eastern New Mexico may see single-digit temperatures, with wind chills dropping below zero.
For Mountainair and surrounding high-elevation communities, the combination of lingering snowfall, intense cold, and potential power disruptions could pose added risks. Officials urge residents to prepare for extended periods of subfreezing temperatures, ensure adequate heating supplies, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Those who must travel are advised to carry extra food, water, and a flashlight, and to check road conditions before departing. Road condition updates are available by dialing 511, calling 1-800-432-4269, or visiting nmroads.com.
For the latest forecasts and official updates, residents should monitor information from the Albuquerque office of the National Weather Service. Torrance County residents can also receive local alerts via TextMyGov:
- Text TORRANCE COUNTY to 80946 for general and emergency alerts
- Text TORRANCE NWS to 80946 for weather-related alerts