Drier weather returns Tuesday

The main storm system affecting New Mexico is exiting the region, bringing lighter winds and drier conditions to Bernalillo County by Tuesday.

As of Monday evening, precipitation is decreasing and wind speeds are dropping across most of the state. Breezy conditions persist over higher terrain, including the Continental Divide, the central mountain chain, and the northeastern plains. The wind remains noticeably weaker than it was during the day, with only a few light rain and snow showers lingering across the northern mountains.

Moisture left on the ground from recent precipitation is producing low clouds across parts of west-central, northwestern, and north-central New Mexico tonight. Sheltered valleys and areas with standing water may experience patchy fog or freezing fog where winds are light and the ground remains saturated.

Tuesday morning will start chilly, with some patchy fog or freezing fog remaining early in the day. Visibility should improve after sunrise. The primary shift occurs during the day as drier northwest winds move into the state. Skies will become mostly clear, and winds will be much lighter than they have been in recent days.

Temperatures on Tuesday are expected to stay close to normal or slightly below normal. This marks a break from several days of active weather. A weaker Pacific system will move across the Great Basin and into Colorado on Wednesday. Most of its precipitation is expected to stay north of the state, though a few light showers may develop along the Colorado border near Chama, Dulce, Taos, Red River, and the northern mountains.