Red Flag Warning
2026-03-15T20:00:00-06:00

...RED FLAG WARNING FROM 9 AM TO 8 PM SUNDAY FOR ALL OF NORTHERN AND CENTRAL NM DUE TO STRONG TO SEVERE WINDS AND EXTREMELY LOW HUMIDITY... .Widespread critical fire weather will develop today. Winds will turn very strong to potentially damaging as both a Pacific and backdoor cold front pass through the area. With gusts between 40 and 65 mph and single digit humidity values in many areas, critical to extreme fire weather conditions are likely despite cooling temperatures. * AREA AND TIMING...Northwest Plateau (Zone 101), Northeast Plains (Zone 104), West Central Mountains (Zone 105), Middle Rio Grande Valley (Zone 106), West Central Basin and Range (Zone 109), North Central Mountains (Zone 120), Upper Rio Grande Valley and Lower Chama River Valley (Zone 121), Sangre de Cristo Mountains (Zone 122), Northeast Highlands (Zone 123), Sandia and Manzano Mountains (Zone 124), Central Highlands (Zone 125), and East Central Plains (Zone 126) today from 9 AM through 8 PM. * 20 FOOT WINDS...North northwest winds 25 to 40 mph with gusts between 45 and 65 mph today. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...Minimum values between 6 and 15 percent with locally higher values across the peaks of the Tusas Mountains and Sangre de Cristo Mountains. * IMPACTS...Outdoor burning is discouraged. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and will be hard to control. Long range spotting and extreme fire behavior will be possible.

Old Mike Mountain Peaks

Mountain Peaks

Rocky Mountains

Sangre De Cristo Range

Last Updated: March 15, 2026

Old Mike is a prominent peak located in the Rocky Mountains mountain range.

Summary

Standing tall at an elevation of 14,000 feet (4,267 meters), it is one of the highest peaks in this range. The mountain boasts a substantial size, providing climbers with varied and challenging routes to reach its summit. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding alpine landscape, making it a popular destination for mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts.

During the winter season, Old Mike experiences a significant snowpack range. The accumulation of snowfall covers its rugged slopes, creating a majestic winter wonderland. The mountain's snowpack provides an ideal playground for backcountry skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. It is crucial for climbers to carefully assess the snow conditions and avalanche risks before embarking on any winter ascent.

Several creeks and rivers in the vicinity of Old Mike receive runoff from the mountain's snowmelt. These water sources contribute to the region's freshwater supply and support diverse ecosystems downstream. Among the notable waterways influenced by Old Mike's runoff are Crystal Creek, which flows into the Arkansas River, and Clear Creek, which eventually joins the South Platte River.

The name "Old Mike" holds an intriguing history. According to local lore, the mountain was named after an early settler in the area named Mike. Legend has it that Old Mike was a rugged outdoorsman who was known for his adventurous spirit and love for exploring the Rockies. His legacy lives on through the mountain's name, paying tribute to his connection with the land and the challenging nature of the peak.

In conclusion, Old Mike is a majestic mountain in the Rocky Mountains mountain range, known for its impressive elevation and size. It offers thrilling mountaineering opportunities and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The winter season brings a substantial snowpack range, attracting winter sports enthusiasts. The mountain's runoff feeds into various creeks and rivers, contributing to the region's water supply. With its rich history and legendary name, Old Mike holds a special place within the Rocky Mountains.

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Red Flag Warning
Until 2026-03-15T20:00:00-06:00 • National Weather Service
...RED FLAG WARNING FROM 9 AM TO 8 PM SUNDAY FOR ALL OF NORTHERN AND CENTRAL NM DUE TO STRONG TO SEVERE WINDS AND EXTREMELY LOW HUMIDITY... .Widespread critical fire weather will develop today. Winds will turn very strong to potentially damaging as both a Pacific and backdoor cold front pass through the area. With gusts between 40 and 65 mph and single digit humidity values in many areas, critical to extreme fire weather conditions are likely despite cooling temperatures. * AREA AND TIMING...Northwest Plateau (Zone 101), Northeast Plains (Zone 104), West Central Mountains (Zone 105), Middle Rio Grande Valley (Zone 106), West Central Basin and Range (Zone 109), North Central Mountains (Zone 120), Upper Rio Grande Valley and Lower Chama River Valley (Zone 121), Sangre de Cristo Mountains (Zone 122), Northeast Highlands (Zone 123), Sandia and Manzano Mountains (Zone 124), Central Highlands (Zone 125), and East Central Plains (Zone 126) today from 9 AM through 8 PM. * 20 FOOT WINDS...North northwest winds 25 to 40 mph with gusts between 45 and 65 mph today. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...Minimum values between 6 and 15 percent with locally higher values across the peaks of the Tusas Mountains and Sangre de Cristo Mountains. * IMPACTS...Outdoor burning is discouraged. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and will be hard to control. Long range spotting and extreme fire behavior will be possible.