Mid level moisture is increasing in the atmosphere, and this will lead to the development of high-based showers and thunderstorms this afternoon into the evening across portions of western and central New Mexico. Because of very dry air beneath the cloud bases, much of the rainfall associated with these showers and thunderstorms will evaporate before reaching the ground. This evaporating rainfall, or virga, is prone to producing very abrupt and erratic wind gusts beneath or near any shower or storm activity. As showers and weak thunderstorms begin to develop in southwestern to west central New Mexico this afternoon, they will drift northeastward through the evening into central parts of the state, including areas near the Rio Grande valley and the central mountain chain. You should remain prepared for sudden wind gusts with this shower and storm activity. Wind gusts will approach speeds of 50 to 60 mph in some areas with little warning. Be on the lookout for areas of blowing dust, and be prepared to pull over if driving, as visibility can drop to zero in dust storms.
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