Residents of the Albuquerque metro area and nearby Santa Fe should prepare for a cooler, cloud‑filled Friday. High temperatures will sit just below the seasonal norm, with Albuquerque reaching about 60°F and Santa Fe staying cooler at roughly 54°F.

Friday afternoon: clouds and a chance of rain

Morning sunshine will give way to a thickening cloud deck by mid‑morning. While the chance of a heavy downpour remains low, scattered showers could develop after lunchtime, especially in the western suburbs and higher elevations. Rain is expected to taper off by 10 p.m., leaving the evening mostly dry.

Because the showers are likely to be brief, most commuters can continue with their plans, but it’s wise to carry an umbrella or rain jacket when heading out, particularly for those walking or biking to work or school.

Saturday: clearing skies and a temperature rebound

Saturday morning will start with lingering clouds, but the sky should clear gradually as the day progresses. By mid‑day, sunshine will dominate, allowing temperatures to climb back into the low 70s in Albuquerque and the mid‑60s in Santa Fe. Outdoor activities—such as hiking, gardening, or weekend sports—can proceed without weather concerns.

Sunday and the week ahead

Sunday marks the beginning of a dry stretch that is expected to last through the early part of next week. Clear skies and comfortable daytime highs will dominate, giving families and businesses a reliable forecast for outdoor events and errands.

Later in the week, meteorologists anticipate a return of rain toward the end of next week, but for now, the immediate outlook remains dry after Sunday.

What to keep in mind

• Carry an umbrella on Friday, especially if you’ll be outdoors after lunch.
• Dress in layers; mornings may feel crisp, while afternoons will be milder.
• Check local traffic reports for any minor delays caused by brief showers.
• Stay tuned to the National Weather Service for any updates to the forecast.

Overall, the short‑term weather pattern offers a mix of cloud cover and cooler temperatures, followed by a quick return to sunshine and comfortable warmth. Residents can plan their week with confidence, knowing that any rain will be brief and limited to Friday afternoon.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.