The holiday season is upon us, and it’s certainly better to be safe than sorry. Some aspects to consider include the weather and which stores will offer services for any last-minute shopping.
In terms of weather, this Christmas will be hotter than expected, but the community should still be prepared for a possible storm on Christmas night.
The National Weather Service Albuquerque office forecasts above-normal temperatures, dry conditions, and light winds for the weeks before Christmas, although no snow is expected.
However, a potential storm may arrive Christmas night and the following day.
According to the National Weather Service, this weather is abnormal for this time of the year. New Mexico usually experiences cooler temperatures around this time of year as well as more storm activity.
“It’s usually quite a bit cooler this time of year, and we usually start to see more storm systems moving through our area with rain and snow, but this pattern that we’re in right now has been fairly dry and above normal for quite some time, so we’re looking forward to something towards the end of the month, hopefully,” said meteorologist Brian Guyer.
The possibility of a white Christmas cannot be disregarded just yet. To check on weather updates, check the National Weather Service website.
As for shopping needs during this holiday season, some businesses are expected to open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Walmart will close at 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve, and will reopen on Dec. 26 at 6 a.m.
Smith’s will be open till 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve, close for Christmas Day and reopen on Dec. 26.
Walgreens is usually open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., but its hours will be a tad different for Dec. 24 and 25. The store will be open while the pharmacy will not open until Dec. 26at its regular hours.