Light winds are expected across much of New Mexico on Tuesday, with isolated, afternoon pop-up showers and a few dry thunderstorms possible in spots. Most activity should develop over higher terrain, but brief sprinkles could reach lower valleys including the Albuquerque and Roswell areas.

Overall rainfall amounts are forecast to be very low to nearly non-existent. Much of the moisture will evaporate in midair (virga) before reaching the ground, so most locations will not see measurable accumulation. A small number of storms could still produce lightning despite limited rainfall.

Winds will be generally southwesterly at about 5–15 mph, though some locations may experience gusts up to 20–30 mph. Those gusts could briefly enhance the feeling of the breeze and, in exposed areas, stir up a little dust.

Temperatures will run warmer than normal for this time of year, about 5–15 degrees above average in many places. Expect highs mostly in the 70s and 80s statewide, with the Albuquerque metro climbing into the 80s and the highest elevations remaining cooler in the 60s.

In short: light breezes, a few hit-or-miss afternoon showers or dry storms mainly over higher ground, and warmer-than-average highs. Keep an eye on localized forecasts if you have outdoor plans, especially since lightning can occur even with storms that produce little or no rainfall.