Can Tornadoes Hit Albuquerque, New Mexico?

Yes, but they are rare and typically weak.

Climatology

• Albuquerque lies on the western fringe of "Tornado Alley" — the Great Plains corridor (TX to ND).
• NWS records (1950–2023): 31 tornadoes in Bernalillo County (avg. ~0.4/year).
• Most are EF0–EF1 (winds 65–110 mph); brief, narrow paths.
• Peak season: May–June (severe thunderstorms with dryline/front interactions).

Notable Event

June 15, 1972 — F4 (Fujita scale) tornado tracked 11 miles through South Valley, killing 1, injuring 12, destroying 50+ homes. Only violent (F4/F5) tornado in NM history.

Why So Few?

• High elevation (5,300 ft) — cooler, drier air limits instability (CAPE).
• Mountains disrupt low-level wind shear.
• Monsoon moisture (Jul–Sep) produces pulse storms, not supercells.

Preparedness

• Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on phones.
• NOAA Weather Radio (KEC80, 162.550 MHz).
• Identify interior room (bathroom/closet) on lowest floor.
• Mobile home residents: pre-identify sturdy shelter.

Risk is low but nonzero. Treat warnings seriously.