Smoke and fiery heat for New Mexico
Jun. 8—At least it's a dry heat.
New Mexico is expected to experience blistering temperatures and hazy skies this week, with little relief from any rain.
Jennifer Shoemake, meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in Albuquerque, said the heat will be a shock compared to last week's rain, hail and relatively cooler temperatures.
"It's going to be an abrupt change," Shoemake said. "For a good chunk of the week we may be looking at heat advisories."
Smoke from Arizona wildfires will likely linger in New Mexico throughout the week.
The Mescal and Telegraph fires south of Globe, Arizona, have burned a total of 106,000 acres as of Monday morning. The Telegraph Fire is 0% contained, and the Mescal Fire is 8% contained.
"These fires aren't going anywhere anytime soon," Shoemake said.
Elevated smoke and ozone levels Monday prompted a health alert from the City of Albuquerque's Environmental Health Department. The air quality alert is scheduled to expire at 2 p.m. Tuesday. The advisory warns those with respiratory conditions to limit outdoor activity.
Temperatures could reach dangerous levels this week.
"Stay hydrated," Shoemake said. "If you're outside, take lots of breaks, and wear loose-fitting clothing. If you know neighbors, friends or elderly people that are vulnerable to heat or don't have AC, check on those folks this week."
Albuquerque first surpassed 90 degrees on June 5 this year, a few days later than normal.
May 27 is the long-term average for the first day that Albuquerque pushes past a high of 90 degrees.
Tuesday in Albuquerque is forecast to reach a high temperature of 92 degrees, with afternoon winds at 5 to 10 mph.
The metro area is expected to hit a high of 92 degrees on Wednesday.
Temperatures will soar on Thursday.
Eastern New Mexico will bear the brunt of the scorching temperatures.
Roswell could reach a high of 106 degrees.
Tucumcari, Clovis and Socorro are all expected to record triple digit temperatures.
Albuquerque may hit a high of 95 on Thursday and Friday.
A cool front could move into eastern New Mexico on Friday.
"That will tame the 100-degree heat a little bit," Shoemake said. "It won't be quite as hot, but it's still going to be hot."
Clovis, Socorro and Tucumcari will dip below triple digits on Friday. Roswell is expected to record a high of 104 degrees.
Albuquerque is forecast to have no chance of rain all week.
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible across eastern New Mexico this weekend.
Theresa Davis is a Report for America corps member covering water and the environment for the Albuquerque Journal.
