ABC-7 First Alert: Quiet Start to the Week Before Strong Winds and a Cold Front Arrive

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — Quiet and mostly dry weather will continue across the Borderland through Wednesday, with temperatures near seasonal averages to slightly above normal. However, a potent cold front is expected to move into the region late Thursday, bringing a sharp cooldown, strong winds, and chances for rain heading into Friday.

For El Paso and Las Cruces mostly quiet through Wednesday. Temperatures will remain near seasonal averages to warmer than normal, with mostly dry skies and limited chances for precipitation.

Breezy conditions are expected Tuesday, followed by lighter winds Wednesday. A slight chance of thunderstorms will remain across southern Hudspeth County on Wednesday, but most of the Borderland is expected to stay dry.

Strong Winds and Cooler Temperatures Arrive Thursday

The biggest weather change arrives late Thursday as a potent cold front pushes south from the Great Plains and moves through the Borderland overnight into Friday.

Winds may begin shifting to the north Thursday afternoon, gradually increasing ahead of the front. The strongest winds are expected after sunset Thursday and will continue overnight into Friday.

Northeast to easterly winds of 25 to 40 mph are possible, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph in the strongest areas. The windiest conditions are expected along ridge tops and west-facing slopes, including areas near Hueco Tanks and west El Paso.

The strong winds could also create areas of blowing dust, especially near Lordsburg Playa, where loose sediment may become airborne and reduce visibility. Drivers should be prepared for potentially hazardous travel conditions, particularly in exposed areas and along roadways affected by blowing dust.