Strong Thunderstorm Line Tracking Through Southwestern Torrance County; Gusty Winds and Blowing Dust Until 3 PM
The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a Special Weather Statement for a line of strong thunderstorms affecting southwestern Torrance County and south central Socorro County, in effect until 3 p.m. MDT this afternoon (Thursday, June 25, 2026).
At 2:15 p.m. MDT, surface observations indicated a line of strong thunderstorms extending from near San Acacia to 28 miles southeast of Bosque Del Apache Refuge, moving east at 20 mph. The storm line is expected to impact the southwestern portions of Torrance County within the next 45 minutes.
Expected Hazards:
Wind gusts of 50 to 55 mph are expected, capable of knocking down tree limbs and blowing around unsecured objects. Pea-size hail is possible, with minor damage to vehicles and outdoor objects expected.
Blowing dust associated with strong thunderstorm winds can reduce visibility below one quarter mile at times. This sudden dust can create hazardous driving conditions, particularly along Interstate 25, Highway 380, and Highway 60 in the affected areas.
Locations Impacted:
The strongest impacts are expected near San Antonio, Escondida, Lemitar, San Acacia, and areas along I-25 between Mile Markers 123 and 163. Drivers should be prepared for sudden decreases in visibility and exercise caution through the affected region.
Immediate Actions:
Motorists encountering blowing dust or sudden wind gusts should pull off the roadway to a safe location and wait for visibility to improve. Residents in southwestern Torrance County should monitor the weather closely as the line of storms approaches.
For the latest forecast updates, visit the Albuquerque office of the National Weather Service. Torrance County residents can receive timely alerts by signing up for TextMyGov notifications:
- Text TORRANCE COUNTY to 80946 for general and emergency alerts
- Text TORRANCE FIRE ALERTS to 80946 for information on prescribed burns or active fires in the area
- Text TORRANCE NWS to 80946 for weather-related alerts