Albuquerque sees record cold temperatures along with snow

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – People in the metro are feeling those record cold temps. It’s been gray and gloomy all day with a sprinkling of sleet across Albuquerque, but many say they are enjoying it.

“I’m feeling really happy because its snowing and I like snow,” said local Vida Ramirez.

“We just go out and enjoy the weather, especially snow,” said Albuquerque resident Phung Huyn. “Here in New Mexico, we don’t really have a real winter compared to other states so it’s really cool.”

For the most part, the snow is turning into slush, creating a potential danger for drivers who are on the roads as temperatures start to drop. I-25 southbound has been a complete nightmare for much of the Monday evening. Police are encouraging people to stay home and off the roads.

A handful of people were out walking in the snow, KRQE News 13 caught up with a couple and their dog. They want to make the most of this winter weather while it lasts.

“We’re hoping we could get to the mountain if it’s not too snowy to get over there and cross country ski and the dog loves to run in the snow when we ski and if we can’t do that, we might try to cross country ski in Roosevelt Park,” said Albuquerque locals.

As the sun went down, we saw snow plows start to come out in Nob Hill. Traffic was slower than usual, many people taking more precautions on the road. In the heights near Eubank and Menaul, the snow started to turn into slush and in downtown Albuquerque, it was like a ghost town.

“We’re not in the center of the storm, but I hope that someone who lives in that kind of area can be safe. If they don’t feel safe going out then try to stay at home and enjoy this weather,” said Albuquerque resident Huyen Nguyen.

The City of Albuquerque said it’s road crews are ready. They have snow plows and salt trucks ready to clear the roads as the storm continues. Crews will focus on bridges and intersections first, residential streets are not cleared by road crews. Local law enforcement agencies also want to remind people to slow down on the roads in case there is ice.