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- calendar_today October 15, 2026
High Winds Travel Advisory in Southern New Mexico
The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) has issued a high winds travel advisory for drivers in southern New Mexico. According to NMDOT, strong winds and blowing dust are expected to significantly impact travel conditions from Wednesday through Saturday, with the situation expected to worsen during the evening hours.
Weather Forecasts Call for Significant Wind Gusts
The National Weather Service is predicting wind gusts exceeding 50 mph along the international border in southern New Mexico. These high winds are expected to create hazardous driving conditions, particularly due to the increased risk of blowing dust and sudden dust storms in remote areas.
Travel Safety Precautions for Motorists
Motorists are encouraged to closely monitor local weather forecasts prior to beginning their travel. NMDOT recommends visiting www.nmroads.com for up-to-date information on road conditions and travel advisories. Sudden changes in conditions can occur, and blowing dust may quickly develop into blinding dust storms that severely reduce visibility and driving safety.
Safety Guidelines for Dust Storms
- Avoid driving into or through a dust storm if possible.
- Do not wait until visibility is severely reduced; exit the highway as soon as it is safe to do so.
- If you encounter blowing dust, check traffic around your vehicle and begin to slow down.
- Never stop in the travel lanes. Pull completely off the road and as far onto the right shoulder as possible, ensuring a safe distance from traffic.
- Turn off all vehicle lights, including headlights, taillights, and emergency flashers, to prevent other drivers from following your lights into your vehicle.
- Set your parking brake and remove your foot from the brake pedal.
- Remain inside your vehicle with your seat belt buckled until the storm passes.
- Drivers of high-profile vehicles should be especially alert to changing conditions and reduce speed as needed.
Monitoring Road Conditions and Updates
NMDOT will continue to monitor roadways in coordination with local law enforcement throughout the forecasted high wind event. Travelers can access current travel advisories and road updates through www.nmroads.com or by calling 511. Conditions are subject to change rapidly, and travelers are advised to stay informed about weather developments and road conditions before and during their trips.
Vehicle Safety and Precautionary Measures
The NMDOT emphasizes the importance of vehicle safety during periods of high winds and limited visibility caused by blowing dust. Taking the recommended safety measures can prevent accidents and enhance overall travel safety for all motorists in southern New Mexico during the advisory period.
Stay Informed for Your Safety
For the duration of the high winds travel advisory, drivers are urged to keep up with the latest weather advisory and traffic updates. Staying aware and following NMDOT's guidelines will help ensure the safety of everyone traveling in the affected areas of southern New Mexico.
Source: krqe.com.
