Freeze Alert

The National Weather Service in Albuquerque issued a Freeze Watch at 12:00 PM MDT, Thursday, April 2, 2026, warning that sub-freezing temperatures could develop late Friday night and continue into Saturday morning across parts of central and northern New Mexico, including the Estancia Valley.

Forecasters say temperatures could drop as low as 20°F in the Estancia Valley, with lows in the mid-20s possible in other watch areas. In Torrance County, the greatest concern is for Estancia and surrounding parts of the Estancia Valley, where a hard freeze could damage early spring growth.

The weather service cautioned that after a record warm March, sensitive and blooming vegetation may be especially vulnerable. Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops and other tender plants, and could also damage unprotected outdoor plumbing. Residents are encouraged to take steps now to protect plants, cover or bring in temperature-sensitive items, and ensure exposed pipes are insulated ahead of the coldest period.

For the latest forecast updates, monitor information from the Albuquerque office of the National Weather Service. Torrance County residents can also receive local alerts by signing up for TextMyGov notifications through the county’s Department of Emergency Management. There are different notification groups to tailor the types of messages you receive:

• Text TORRANCE COUNTY to 80946 for general notifications. This is also how emergency alerts will be sent.
• Text TORRANCE FIRE ALERTS to 80946 for information on prescribed burns or active fires in the area.
• Text TORRANCE NWS to 80946 to receive weather alerts.