Torrance County Faces Fire and Snowfall Risks
The National Weather Service has issued a warning that a powerful storm system is expected to impact Torrance County and the Mountainair area from Thursday through Saturday, bringing high winds, blowing dust, and increased wildfire danger, along with potential snowfall in the nearby high terrain.
On Thursday, strong southwest winds will develop across central New Mexico, with gusts between 40 and 50 mph expected throughout Torrance County. These winds will likely kick up blowing dust, creating reduced visibility, especially along highways and open areas around Mountainair. With warm temperatures and low humidity, the risk of rapid wildfire spread will also be high. Residents should be cautious with any outdoor activities that could spark a fire, as conditions will be favorable for flames to spread quickly.
By Thursday night, snow is expected to move into the mountains west and north of Torrance County, including the Manzano and Sandia Mountains. Travelers heading into these higher elevations should be prepared for blowing snow, slick roads, and reduced visibility. Meanwhile, strong winds will continue across the county into Friday, intensifying to damaging gusts between 65 and 80 mph. These winds could make travel hazardous for high-profile vehicles and may cause damage to lightweight structures, roofs, fences, and outdoor decorations. Significant blowing dust is again likely, which could impact visibility throughout the region, particularly in open areas.
On Saturday, winds will shift out of the northwest but remain breezy. Snow may continue in the higher terrain to the west and north, but Mountainair and most of Torrance County will primarily experience continued wind and potential dust.
In addition to the storm system, fire weather conditions will be critical. A Fire Weather Watch has been issued for Thursday afternoon and evening, covering the Middle Rio Grande Valley, Sandia and Manzano Mountains, and much of eastern New Mexico, including Torrance County. Southwest winds of 25 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 50 mph, combined with low humidity levels between 12 and 20 percent, will create dangerous conditions for fire spread. Outdoor burning is not recommended, as any fires that start could quickly become uncontrollable.
Residents of Mountainair and the surrounding areas should stay updated on the latest weather forecasts from the National Weather Service’s Albuquerque office and sign up for emergency alerts from the Torrance County Department of Emergency Management’s Red Alert system. Travelers should be prepared for changing conditions and avoid unnecessary travel during the worst of the storm. Those with outdoor structures, decorations, or livestock should secure them ahead of the high winds, and everyone should have alternative plans for any outdoor activities.