Winter Storm Watch Issued for Torrance County Ahead of Significant Snow and Cold
The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a Winter Storm Watch for much of central and eastern New Mexico, including Torrance County and the Mountainair area, beginning Friday morning and lasting through late Saturday night, January 23–24, 2026.
Forecasters say heavy snow is possible, with 5 to 10 inches of accumulation expected across much of central and eastern New Mexico. Higher elevations above 9,000 feet, including parts of the Manzano Mountains, could see up to 16 inches. The watch covers the Estancia Valley, Central and South Central Highlands, and the Sandia and Manzano Mountains, placing Mountainair squarely within the potential impact zone.
Travel conditions could become very difficult to impossible for an extended period, particularly along Interstate 40, where impacts are expected from Tijeras Canyon eastward to the Texas border. Blowing and drifting snow, combined with prolonged snowfall, may lead to road closures or lengthy delays. Secondary highways and rural roads in Torrance County may also become impassable at times.
In addition to snow, bitterly cold temperatures are expected to accompany the storm. The coldest conditions are forecast for Sunday morning, when much of eastern New Mexico may see single-digit temperatures or colder. Officials warn that the weight of accumulating snow could stress the power grid, increasing the risk of outages. Residents should be prepared for the possibility of 48 hours or more of subfreezing temperatures, especially if power disruptions occur.
Residents of Mountainair and surrounding communities are encouraged to prepare now by reviewing travel plans, checking emergency supplies, and ensuring livestock, pets, and vulnerable neighbors have adequate shelter and heat. Those planning to travel between Friday and Sunday morning should closely monitor conditions, particularly if traveling along I-40 or I-25.
For the latest forecasts and 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:
- Text TORRANCE COUNTY to 80946 for general and emergency alerts
- Text TORRANCE NWS to 80946 for weather-related alerts