ABC-7 First Alert Continues: Strong Backdoor Cold Front Brings Very Strong Winds, Sharp Temperature Drop to the Borderland

A powerful cold front is moving into the Borderland tonight, bringing a dramatic shift in winds, much colder temperatures and the potential for blowing dust across parts of the region.

The cold front is expected to reach the El Paso and Las Cruces metro areas this evening, with extreme NE winds.

Dangerous winds arrive tonight

East-northeast winds of 25 to 35 mph are expected across much of the region tonight and Friday. Wind gusts could exceed 60 mph across El Paso, Hudspeth and Otero counties, especially along west-facing mountain slopes.

High Wind Warnings are in effect for El Paso, Hudspeth and Otero counties, as well as southern Hidalgo and Grant counties, through Friday night.

The remainder of the forecast area is under a Wind Advisory, with gusts potentially reaching 50 mph.

Blowing dust likely

The strong winds will also create the potential for blowing dust, particularly late Thursday evening into Friday.

Dusty conditions are expected across El Paso and Hudspeth counties in Texas, as well as southern Doña Ana and Luna counties in New Mexico. The playas of Hidalgo County could also experience blowing dust Friday.

Drivers should be prepared for rapidly changing visibility, particularly in areas prone to blowing dust.

Temperatures plunge

Along with the wind, a significant blast of colder air will move into the Borderland.

Temperatures are expected to fall to at least 20 degrees below normal tonight as the cold front pushes through.

Friday and Saturday will remain chilly, with lowland afternoon temperatures struggling to reach the lower 60s. Freezing temperatures are expected in the mountains Friday and Saturday mornings.

Despite the dramatic temperature change, rain and snow are not expected to be major factors this weekend. Earlier indications of increased moisture have shifted farther south, keeping precipitation chances limited across the Borderland.