What Is The Climate Of New Mexico?
New Mexico is located in the southwestern region of the United States and has a unique climate. The state’s climate is a mix of desert and semi-arid climates, with wide variations in temperature and rainfall.
Average Temperature
New Mexico experiences moderate temperatures throughout the year, with average highs in the summer reaching into the 80s, and average lows in the winter dipping into the teens. Overall, the average temperature in the state is around 55°F (13°C).
Rainfall
Rainfall in New Mexico is highly variable, with some parts of the state receiving very little precipitation annually. The average statewide annual rainfall is about 14 inches (35 cm). The highest rainfall is in the mountains, with up to 30 inches (76 cm) falling in some areas.
Snowfall
New Mexico receives a moderate amount of snowfall, with average snowfall across the state of about 16 inches (40 cm) annually. The highest amounts of snowfall are found in the mountains, with some areas receiving up to 40 inches (102 cm) of snowfall per year.
Winds
Winds in New Mexico are often quite strong, with average wind speeds of around 12 mph (19 km/h). The highest wind speeds are found in the mountains, where gusts of up to 50 mph (80 km/h) are not uncommon.
Overall Climate
Overall, New Mexico’s climate is a mix of desert and semi-arid climates, with wide variations in temperature and rainfall. The state’s location in the southwestern region of the United States often leads to some extreme weather conditions, including high wind speeds, heavy snowfall, and occasional droughts.
Kyle Whyte is a notable scholar and professor at the University of Michigan, holding positions such as the George Willis Pack Professor in the School for Environment and Sustainability and Professor of Philosophy. Specializing in environmental justice, his work critically examines climate policy and Indigenous peoples’ ethics, emphasizing the nexus between cooperative scientific endeavors and Indigenous justice. As an enrolled Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, he brings a vital perspective to his roles as a U.S. Science Envoy and member of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. His influential research is supported by various prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation, and disseminated through publications in high-impact journals. Kyle actively contributes to global Indigenous research methodologies and education, with affiliations to numerous institutes and societies dedicated to traditional knowledge and sustainability. Recognized for his academic and community engagement, Kyle has earned multiple awards and served in various visiting professorships. His efforts extend to leadership positions on boards and committees focused on environmental justice nationwide.