Snow in Taos Saturday, clearing next few days

After a night of sporadic rain and wind, a fast and very furious snow storm rolled through the town of Taos around 6 a.m. Dec. 17. Although it let up a little by 7 a.m., more is possible later on as a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until around 9 a.m.

Roads quickly went from passable to very slick. Motorists are cautioned to take it slow and limit driving until conditions improve. Public safety officials are reporting several weather-related accidents in Taos and Taos County.

The following is word from the National Weather Service (weather.gov):

Snow accumulations: another 1 to 3 inches in the far northwest Highlands and 2 to locally 5 inches in the upper Rio Grande Valley.

Timing: The most significant snowfall is expected through mid-morning.

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Winds: West to southwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts between 35 and 50 mph, shifting to west to Northwest and diminishing somewhat this afternoon.

Snow levels: temperatures will be cold enough for snow at all locations by or shortly after dawn.

Local Impacts: The combination of strong winds and heavy snow will create poor visibilities. Hazardous travel is expected with snow packed and icy roadways.

A Winter Storm Warning for heavy snow and blowing snow means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring.

Significant amounts of snow are forecast that will make travel dangerous. Strong winds are likely. Only Travel in an emergency. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

The NWS shows the weather will be clearing and sunny through Thursday Dec. 22 with daytime temps rising to the 40s, and lows from -3 to 18 degrees at night.

For more on driving conditions, visit nmroads.com.