High Winds Expected Across New Mexico on Tuesday

Gusts up to 60 mph forecast for eastern parts of the state

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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A pair of weather systems moving through New Mexico on Tuesday are expected to bring high winds, with the strongest gusts of 50-60 mph forecast for the eastern part of the state, mainly east of the central mountain chain. The winds are expected to start in the mid-morning and slowly diminish by the evening hours.

Why it matters

Strong winds can create hazardous driving conditions, down power lines, and cause other property damage, so residents in the affected areas will need to take precautions. The high winds are part of a broader period of unsettled weather expected in New Mexico over the next few days.

The details

According to meteorologist Amanda Goluszka, the first of two weather systems moved through the state on Tuesday morning, with the second system expected to impact the northern and western parts of New Mexico on Wednesday. In addition to the high winds, there is also a chance of rain and snow showers, but the wind is the primary concern.

  • The highest wind gusts of 50-60 mph are expected as early as mid-morning on Tuesday.
  • The winds are forecast to slowly diminish, but not until after sunset around 8-9 pm on Tuesday.

The players

Amanda Goluszka

A meteorologist who provided the forecast details for the high winds expected in New Mexico on Tuesday.

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What they’re saying

“Tuesday is set to be a wild weather day as the first two systems is moving through New Mexico and is set to bring high winds.”

— Amanda Goluszka, Meteorologist (kob.com)

The takeaway

Residents in eastern New Mexico should be prepared for hazardous driving conditions and the potential for power outages and property damage due to the high winds expected on Tuesday. It's part of a broader period of unsettled weather in the state over the next few days.