Albuquerque, NM — A fast-moving winter system is creating hazardous travel conditions across central and northern New Mexico tonight, with major stretches of I-25 and I-40 now “snow-packed and increasingly icy,” according to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque.
Winter Storm Brings Rapidly Worsening Road Conditions
The National Weather Service reports that ongoing snowfall combined with sharply falling temperatures is making highways extremely slick, especially in high-elevation corridors. Officials warn that “roads may continue to refreeze overnight” and that even plowed areas could become hazardous again by early Thursday morning.
Live traffic cameras from critical travel points — including I-25 at Upper La Bajada, Las Vegas, and Glorieta Pass and I-40 near Moriarty and Tijeras Canyon — show white-out stretches, ice-covered pavement, and reduced visibility. Mountain locations such as Bobcat Pass are experiencing even more severe conditions with deeper snow accumulation.
What Forecasters Are Saying
Meteorologists caution that temperatures will fall further through the night, increasing the likelihood of black ice on untreated roads, bridges, ramps, and shaded areas. The NWS highlighted that “additional icing is expected as temperatures continue to drop”, urging travelers to remain alert and prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
Wind gusts in exposed areas could also blow snow back onto previously cleared lanes, adding another layer of risk for nighttime drivers.
Areas Facing the Worst Conditions
The most dangerous conditions tonight are expected in:
- I-25: Upper La Bajada, Las Vegas, Glorieta Pass
- I-40: Moriarty, Tijeras Canyon
- Northern mountains: including Bobcat Pass
- High-elevation corridors: where snow is accumulating faster than crews can clear
These regions are reporting “snow-packed lanes, icy patches, and low visibility” that may continue deteriorating overnight.
Safety Guidance for Drivers Tonight
With refreezing expected into early Thursday, transportation officials and meteorologists are urging residents to take precautions:
- Avoid unnecessary travel on I-25 and I-40 tonight
- Reduce speed significantly in snow and ice
- Increase braking distance
- Use headlights in low visibility
- Watch for sudden icy patches on bridges and overpasses
- Carry emergency supplies if traveling long distances
Authorities emphasize that higher elevations and mountain passes pose the greatest risk, where temperatures will drop to levels that almost guarantee overnight icing.
Forecast: When Will Conditions Improve?
Temperatures will begin to rise slightly after sunrise on Thursday, which may help reduce widespread ice. However, forecasters say that shaded areas, elevated roadways, and untreated surfaces could stay slick through mid-morning. Additional snow showers are possible in the northern mountains, which may keep hazardous travel conditions in place longer.
Drivers are encouraged to check updates frequently, as conditions may change quickly throughout the night.
Conclusion
With snow, freezing temperatures, and rapidly forming ice affecting key travel routes, central and northern New Mexico face a dangerous night on the roads. The combination of snow-packed pavement and dropping temperatures means drivers must remain alert and postpone travel if possible.
Stay Informed
Before heading out, check real-time updates at nmroads.com or call 511 New Mexico for the latest conditions.
What are you seeing on the roads in your area tonight? Share your update in the comments.
