Up to 6 inches of snow predicted

Eastern New Mexico can expect 3 to 6 inches of snow tonight and Tuesday, the National Weather Service reported Monday morning.

Clovis Municipal Schools announced classes will be held remotely Tuesday due to the storm threat. Portales public schools are planning to meet in person, but on a two-hour delay. "We'll see what it looks like in the morning," Portales Superintendent Johnnie Cain said early Monday afternoon.

Other delays announced Monday: Clovis Community College will delay opening until 10 a.m. Tuesday. Roosevelt County offices will also open at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Eastern New Mexico University was planning to start two hours later than normal. Portales Area Transit will be on a two-hour delay.

Clovis Emergency Management Coordinator Dan Heerding said snow will likely begin falling about 10 p.m. Monday with 2-3 inches on the ground by sunrise Tuesday.

Heerding said another 1-3 inches of snow is expected Tuesday before noon.

“It will also get a little breezy so blowing snow might be a concern,” Heerding said.

NWS issued a winter storm warning for Curry, De Baca and Roosevelt counties.

“Heavy snow expected,” NWS posted on its website. “Total snow accumulations generally between 3 and 6 inches with higher amounts of 6 to 9 inches expected in eastern Lincoln county and southwestern Guadalupe county. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph.”

NWS also reported travel is expected to be difficult with “near-zero visibility” at times.

“Road closures are possible. Tire traction will be reduced. … This includes along portions of I-40, U.S. 285, U.S 54, and U.S. 60.”

Snow is expected to stop by noon Tuesday but frigid temperatures are forecast through the weekend.

A high of 36 is expected in the Clovis-Portales area on Tuesday with lows in the teens through Thursday.