Unprecedented Warmth Marks Christmas Day in Albuquerque
Record-Breaking Temperatures in New Mexico
On December 25, 2025, Albuquerque, New Mexico, recorded its hottest Christmas Day ever, with temperatures soaring to around 65°F. This unprecedented warmth shattered previous records and stood in stark contrast to the heavy snowfall seen in the mountains of southwest Colorado, where over four inches of snow fell at the Wolf Creek Ski Area near Pagosa Springs. Meanwhile, Albuquerque and many other regions across the state enjoyed a relatively dry day, with only a few light sprinkles reported.
Weather Patterns and Scattered Showers
The warm temperatures in Albuquerque were accompanied by weak waves of moisture from a southwesterly upper-level flow. This brought scattered ‘couple showers’—light rain and isolated sprinkles—primarily to the northwest areas of New Mexico and the Four Corners region. Despite the unusual precipitation, much of central and southern New Mexico remained dry, as dry air ribbons affected the flow. Strong winds gusting up to 40 mph were also noted in northeast New Mexico, adding a blustery element to the holiday weather.
Looking Ahead: A Shift in Weather
As New Mexico transitions from this record warmth, forecasts indicate a cooling trend on the horizon. Following Christmas Day, the state is expected to experience generally dry conditions on December 26, with temperatures still mild, ranging from the 50s to 70s. However, a cold front is predicted to arrive on Sunday, bringing cooler temperatures into the 40s and the potential for scattered rain showers and mountain snow in northern and northeast regions. Windy conditions are also anticipated as the weekend progresses.
Broader Context of Warm Weather Trends
This record warmth is part of a larger climatic trend affecting the region. The weather anomalies experienced this Christmas align with a historic heat dome, which has contributed to some of the warmest holiday conditions since the 1950s. Notably, November 2025 was recorded as the third warmest globally, with year-to-date temperatures being second on record. Such patterns suggest a shift in typical winter conditions, as extreme December heat is becoming more common.
Historical Records in Perspective
The warm temperatures in Albuquerque are reflective of a broader trend across the Southwest, where locations like Farmington also recorded highs near 61°F, and some southeast areas approached 80°F. In contrast, historical data indicates that typical Christmas Day highs in the region usually range from the 40s to 50s. Similar warmth was noted in 1955 during rare ridging events, highlighting how climate variability can lead to significant changes in seasonal weather patterns.
As residents of Albuquerque and visitors alike reflect on this unusual holiday weather, it serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of our climate and its evolving patterns.
