Hazardous winter weather is expected to hit the Guadalupe Mountains in west Texas and southeast New Mexico beginning Sunday evening, with a Winter Storm Watch in force until Tuesday.
The National Weather Service in Midland/Odessa predicts 4 to 6 inches of snow in the Guadalupe Mountains, including elevations above 7,000 feet. Wind gusts might approach 50 mph, resulting in extensive blowing snow and significantly impaired visibility.
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The watch area includes the Guadalupe Mountains in Eddy County, New Mexico; the Guadalupe Mountains National Park at Pine Springs; and the Guadalupe and Delaware Mountains in west Texas. Forecasters warn that visibility may fall to a quarter mile, with whiteout conditions possible at times.
Travel can become hazardous and potentially fatal, especially on mountain passes, side roads, and overpasses where slick conditions can develop quickly. Strong winds may also pull down tree branches, posing extra hazards.
The Winter Storm Watch is in force from Sunday evening to Tuesday morning, with the most severe circumstances expected amid heavier snowfall and greater gusts.
The National Weather Service advises homeowners and travelers to closely follow forecast changes. Officials recommend delaying all travel if possible. Those who must travel should exercise extreme caution, provide extra time, avoid sudden braking, and ensure their vehicles are winterized and ready for rapid changes in visibility.
Travelers, hikers, and workers in the Guadalupe Mountains region may see rapid deterioration tonight and into early Tuesday.
