New Mexico Moderate Special Weather Statement | Effective 07/20/2026 20:01

Headline: 
Special Weather Statement issued July 20 at 9:01PM MDT by NWS Albuquerque NM
Event: 
Special Weather Statement
Urgency: 
Expected
Effective: 
July 20, 2026 - 8:01pm
Expires: 
July 20, 2026 - 8:30pm
Description: 
At 901 PM MDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm over Fruitland, or 12 miles west of Farmington, moving west at 25 mph. HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph, blowing dust, frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, and pea size hail. SOURCE...Radar indicated. IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is possible. Locations impacted include... Southwestern Farmington, Shiprock, Kirtland, Nenahnezad, Fruitland, Ojo Amarillo, Upper Fruitland, NAPI Headquarters, Rattlesnake and La Plata. This includes Highway 64 between Mile Markers 12 and 51.
Instruction: 
Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe shelter inside a building or vehicle. Blowing dust associated with strong thunderstorm winds can reduce visibility below one mile at times.
Area Description: 
Northwest Plateau
Forcast Office: 
NWS Albuquerque NM