Heads up, Santa Fe! We’re looking at a significant wind event moving in on Tuesday that could make for a rough commute and a noisy afternoon. I wanted to break down what’s coming, what to expect, and how to prepare.
The Setup
A strong Pacific storm system is digging into the Four Corners region, pulling in a tight pressure gradient across Northern New Mexico. That means strong, gusty southwest winds ahead of a cold front. These systems are common in spring, but this one looks particularly robust.
Wind Timing & Intensity
When: Mid-morning through late afternoon Tuesday (roughly 9 AM–6 PM)
Peak Gusts: 45–60 mph possible in the Santa Fe area; higher gusts in exposed ridgelines and open areas
Direction: Winds will be out of the southwest, shifting to the west later in the day.
Impacts
Travel: High-profile vehicles on I-25 and Highway 285 could be especially vulnerable to crosswinds
Power outages: Gusts over 50 mph can bring down tree limbs or power lines
Dust: Expect reduced visibility in open areas, especially south of the city
Fire danger: Low humidity and strong winds = critical fire weather. Avoid outdoor burning!
Jay’s Tips
Secure loose items around your yard Monday evening—patio furniture, trash bins, etc.
Drive with caution, especially if you're in a high-profile vehicle.
Avoid unnecessary fire ignition sources. This is not the day to burn anything or flick a cigarette out the window.
Stay weather aware—I'll be posting updates Tuesday morning and throughout the day as conditions develop.
A Quick Note on Santa Fe Winds
We get our fair share of wind here, especially in March and April. Our location near the foothills and elevation of 7,000 feet means even moderate pressure changes can translate into strong surface winds. But when we see forecasted gusts in the 50–60 mph range, that’s worth taking seriously.
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