Temperatures across New Mexico continue to warm up through the afternoon. Additionally, a low pressure system early next week could be bringing the state some snow.
An upper level ridge continues to amplify over New Mexico today. This ridge is associated with a high pressure system to the south of the state. This ridge is allowing temperatures across New Mexico to raise to record breaking levels. Western New Mexico has the best chance today of setting new records for high temperatures. These near and record breaking temperatures will continue into Saturday.
A small low pressure system will clip northern New Mexico Saturday afternoon. This system will be bringing very strong wind gusts to the state. Gusts upwards of 55 mph are expected Saturday afternoon. A combination of these gusts, high temperatures, and low humidity has led to an increased fire risk. A Red Flag Warning is on place for portions of New Mexico from 11:00 am to 6:00 p.m. Saturday January 4th.
The storm clipping New Mexico on Saturday will also be bringing a light dusting of snow to the northernmost regions of the state. On Saturday, the snow is expected to stay in the mountains of Colorado. But its may make its way to the New Mexico border. On Sunday, the snow chances shift further east and flurries become possible in northeast New Mexico. Temperatures will also drop on Sunday as a pacific cold front makes its way through New Mexico. Temperatures will continue to drop through early next week.