Cool Temps and High Winds Forecast for Central New Mexico

Sunshine returns on Sunday, April 12 after a period of unsettled weather

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:52am

A vast, majestic landscape painting in muted tones of blue, gray, and green, with a dramatic, cloud-filled sky dominating the horizon and sweeping across the windswept plains below, conceptually representing the transitioning weather conditions in central New Mexico.The dramatic shift in weather patterns across central New Mexico reflects the region's variable spring climate, as periods of unsettled conditions give way to more stable, sunny skies.Santa Fe Today

After a period of cool temperatures, cloudy skies, and high winds across central New Mexico, the region is expected to see a return of sunshine on Sunday, April 12, 2026. However, breezy conditions with wind gusts up to 40 mph are still forecast for the Albuquerque and Santa Fe areas.

Why it matters

The transition in weather patterns is significant for residents of central New Mexico, who have experienced several days of unsettled conditions including the potential for severe storms and blowing dust. The return of sunshine is welcome, but the continued high winds could still impact daily activities and travel.

The details

On Saturday, April 11, temperatures dropped into the upper 40s in Albuquerque and lower 40s in Santa Fe, accompanied by mostly cloudy skies and wind gusts topping 40 mph. A marginal to slight risk for severe storms was also forecast across the eastern plains of New Mexico. For Sunday, April 12, the weather is expected to improve with mostly sunny skies, though winds will remain strong at 10-20 mph from the west-southwest. There is still a 22% chance of rain showers in the Santa Fe area.

  • On Saturday, April 11, temperatures dropped into the upper 40s in Albuquerque and lower 40s in Santa Fe.
  • On Sunday, April 12, the high temperature in Santa Fe is forecast to reach 67°F.

The players

KOAT

A local television news station serving the Albuquerque, New Mexico area.

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings across the United States.

Weather Underground

An online weather service that provides detailed forecasts and weather data.

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What’s next

The National Weather Service has indicated that strong winds are increasingly likely to occur on Monday, April 13, and Tuesday, April 14, with the most significant impact expected in the mountains and northeast regions of the state.

The takeaway

The weather transition in central New Mexico highlights the region's variable spring climate, with periods of cool temperatures, high winds, and the potential for severe storms giving way to more stable, sunny conditions. Residents should remain alert to changing weather patterns and any advisories issued by local authorities.