ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Far eastern New Mexico could briefly see wind gusts approaching 60 mph as north winds pick up behind a backdoor cold front moving through the region.

A high-end wind advisory stays in effect Friday evening while winds shift across eastern New Mexico. Conditions are expected to ease gradually overnight, and clear skies will allow temperatures to fall quickly, producing a notably colder night. Colder air moving in has prompted additional freeze warnings for some areas.

Saturday outlook

Saturday should bring sunny skies with lighter winds and milder daytime temperatures across the state. Dry air will remain in place during the day, but another cold night is likely Saturday night, with sub-freezing readings possible across northern and western parts of New Mexico. Officials also singled out areas from Raton to Las Vegas and Moriarty as places where freeze concerns will persist.

What comes next?

Winds are expected to pick up again on Sunday as a southwest flow strengthens ahead of the next weather system. Eastern New Mexico can expect gusts in the 30–40 mph range, with temperatures climbing a few degrees while humidity remains very low. Sunday night should be milder than the recent nights as moisture increases and breezy conditions continue.