ESFABQ Risk of areal flooding and elevated stream flows from rapid snowmelt . EXISTING CONDITIONS. Recent storms have brought several inches of snow to mid to high elevations (8500'->10500')over the Sangre de Cristo, Jemez and Tusas mountains throughout north central New Mexico. This snow pack contains on average 3-5 inches of liquid equivalent. With upcoming precipitation and warming temperatures, this region of New Mexico is vulnerable to flooding from rapid snowmelt. . PRECIPITATION. There is a 50% chance of 0.5" of rainfall over much of the region of concern today (5/8) from noon to 7pm MDT. There is a 10% chance that rainfall amounts will exceed 1.0". These conditions could lead to rapid melt of as much of 1/4 to 1/2 of the existing snowpack. . STREAMFLOW CONDITIONS AND RUNOFF FORECASTS. Streams and rivers in the area will see elevated flows of dangerously cold water over the next several days. Low lying areas and valley floors may see areal flooding from snowmelt. Stay away from fast moving water, exercise caution near riverbanks and stay alert to watches and warnings from the National Weather Service. You can also find additional weather and water products and forecasts at the NWS Albuquerque website at: https://www.weather.gov/abq For questions or comments about this outlook, you can contact Andrew Mangham, Senior Service Hydrologist, at 505-244-9150 x 228 or via e- mail at andrew.mangham@noaa.gov.
