Fall set to be warm and dry

With fall set to begin today, eastern New Mexico residents who have not appreciated the above-average temperatures the region has enjoyed recently will not need to wait long for a change.

National Weather Service Meteorologist Annette Mokry said temperatures could reach a below-average level as soon as Sunday.

"The weather that has been warmer than average for most of September is going to take a turn towards cooler and be more fall-like," Mokry said.

Mokry said the weekend could also bring rainfall in the area.

"There's a pretty decent storm system that's supposed to develop over the Rockies late this week," she said.

Mokry said the forecast shows moisture over eastern New Mexico and the region could see thunderstorms starting today and extending into early next week.

But there's little chance of any sustained heat or precipitation for the fall overall, according to Accuweather Meteorologist Steve Travis

"I don't think we're going to see a whole lot of extremes on either end," Travis said.

After a summer season that saw heavier rainfall than normal, Travis expects precipitation to return to average through Christmas.

"There could be a few showers and thunderstorms coming through, but widespread heavy rainfall or flooding aren't really in the cards," Travis said.

Travis also expects snowfall to hold off until at least winter, with there only being a slight chance of light snow or freeze in late November.

Travis summarized the next few months in eastern New Mexico and across the rest of the Southwest as being warm and dry.

Meaning if temperatures do drop and rain does fall this weekend, enjoy it, because it likely won't last.