New Mexico Braces for Above-Average Temperatures as High-Pressure System Settles In

Residents across New Mexico can anticipate a shift in weather patterns, with today marking the beginning of a period characterized by drying, comfortable conditions, and a notable warming trend. A high-pressure system is establishing itself over the region, promising above-average temperatures and setting the stage for pleasant outdoor activities.

Comfortable Conditions Pave Way for Outdoor Activities

Today is projected to be an ideal day for engaging in outdoor pursuits. The atmospheric setup, primarily driven by a developing high-pressure system, is translating into conditions conducive to comfort. This system is a key factor in the anticipated increase in temperatures, pushing them above the seasonal average. Early morning readings, such as Santa Fe's 26 degrees, indicate a cold start, but a consistent warming is expected throughout the day, reaching near daily highs by the mid-afternoon, around 3:00 PM. KOAT reports that this trend will continue, making the latter half of the day particularly enjoyable.

High-Pressure System Drives Warming Trend

The core of this weather transformation is a high-pressure system that is steadily settling into place. This system is the primary mechanism behind the anticipated warming trend. As it solidifies its position, it will effectively trap warmer air, preventing cooler air masses from intruding and maintaining elevated temperatures across the state. The influence of this high-pressure system is expected to extend into the coming days, with Groundhog’s Day, which falls on Monday, specifically highlighted as being warmer than usual due to its presence. For instance, Albuquerque is forecast to reach 40 degrees by 9:00 AM on Monday, indicating a significant increase from early morning lows.

Minimal Moisture Expected, Focus Remains on Warmth

While the dominant forecast points to dry and warm conditions, there is a minor note of potential moisture. A small amount of moisture is anticipated near Northern New Mexico, specifically just north of Taos. However, forecasters do not expect this to have a substantial impact on the overall weather picture. It is considered likely that this moisture will dissipate before making significant inroads into New Mexico. Therefore, the primary focus remains on the ongoing warming trend and the dry, comfortable conditions it brings, with any minor deviations expected to be short-lived and localized. KOAT confirms this localized and minor nature of the potential moisture.

Temperatures on the Rise: Albuquerque Nears 60 Degrees

Looking at the specifics, today’s temperatures are set to climb considerably. Albuquerque is projected to reach a high of 59 degrees today, with expectations that the city will be very close to this peak by 3:00 PM. This represents a significant upward movement from earlier, colder readings. The warming trend is not confined to Albuquerque but is expected to be observed across the entire state. Tomorrow is also forecast to be warmer than today, further solidifying the established pattern of rising temperatures. These higher-than-average temperatures are a direct consequence of the stable high-pressure system that is now firmly in place over the region. The update at 6:59 AM MST on February 1, 2026, further reiterates this forecast. KOAT consistently highlights the upward trajectory of temperatures for the coming days.