Wind could affect Tuesday's mass ascension; ABQ expected to receive rain and t-storms this week

Before looking up to the skies, Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta officials will be keeping an eye on the weather for the next few days.

On Tuesday morning, winds are expected to be 10-15 mph at Balloon Fiesta Park, which could be a concern for those coming out to watch the balloons, National Weather Service of Albuquerque meteorologist Jennifer Shoemake said.

“We know that weather in New Mexico has the potential to change,” said Tom Garrity, Balloon Fiesta spokesperson. “We also know that we need to keep an eye on the forecast. Winds faster than 11.5 mph is definitely something that gets our attention.”

According to the fiesta, 11.5 mph or more winds could cause the mass ascension to be canceled or postponed.

Fortunately for balloon lovers, there are no evening flights planned Tuesday because there is a 40% chance of rain and thunderstorms that could produce up to a half-inch of rain per hour in some areas, NWS meteorologist Nico Porcelli said.

Chances of rain and thunderstorms will continue through Thursday, over a week after the end of monsoon season that ran from June 15 to Sept. 30.

This monsoon season, Albuquerque received 3.07 inches of precipitation, which is about 68.5% of normal, 4.48 inches, according to NWS. Some parts of the state, however, got well above normal amounts.

Tucumcari got 13.79 inches, over doubled its normal amount, 6.45 inches. A couple of hours northeast, Clayton received 11.94 inches, which is 137% of normal, 8.71 inches, according to the NWS.

Down south, Ruidoso received 16.24 inches of rain, which is about 132% above average, 12.34 inches, Porcelli said.

“As shown by radar estimated data, the higher terrain of the Sacramento Mountains most likely got higher rainfall amounts than the town itself, since most storm activity grew over the high terrain and then moved off into the lower elevation areas throughout the afternoons,” he said.

Village of Ruidoso spokesperson Kerry Gladden said “anytime you see clouds and see a high chance for rain you are on guard about it but we are glad monsoon season, at least on the calendar, is over.”

Despite the end of monsoon season, Porcelli said people should not let their guard down regarding rains and potential flooding.

“(They) always got to be paying attention to each forecast,” he said. “Last year, Roswell had its historical flood at the end of October where they got 5 inches of rain in one day.”