Update: A 101 mph wind gust was recorded Wednesday at San Augustin Pass. For weather updates Wednesday, click here.

LAS CRUCES - Weather forecasters are warning that extreme winds will strike southern New Mexico on Wednesday, including the possibility of 90 mph or 100 mph winds at San Augustin Pass.

Weather officials are urging caution because the high wind speeds could potentially topple awnings and canopies, damage trees and cause high-profile vehicles — particularly those traveling north and south — to overturn. Some power lines may topple, as well, causing electricity outages.

White Sands Missile Range issued a notice saying it's bracing for a "potentially historic high wind event" on Wednesday. Generally, winds will be higher-speed in the mountains and on east-facing mountain slopes than in the lowlands.

Winds were expected to pick up Tuesday afternoon and evening, heading into Wednesday. A high wind warning is in effect from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday across Doña Ana County and southern New Mexico.

"This is going to be above and beyond what's typical for us," said Tom Bird, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Santa Teresa.

Wind speeds in lower elevations will be 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 55 or 60 mph, according to the weather service. But high-elevation passes — such as San Augustin Pass on U.S. 70 — could see wind speeds of 100 mph or more, according to a forecast by White Sands Missile Range. The National Weather Service is predicting wind speeds of 90 mph at the same pass.

"The strongest winds are expected during the late morning and afternoon hours of Wednesday," according to the National Weather Service. "Winds will begin to slacken after sunset."

Las Cruces Weather:More precipitation possible after storm drops rain, hail Friday

Bird said drivers of high-profile vehicles, especially those traveling north-south routes like Interstate 10 between Las Cruces and El Paso or Interstate 25 north of Las Cruces, could face a risk of toppling over. The potential for road closures, such as at area mountain range passes, exists. He said caution is advised for all residents, given that a range of objects, like canopies, could be tossed by the wind.

"If you don't have to be out, don't be out," he said.

Extremely high winds are expected on White Sands Missile Range due to its location on the east slopes of a mountain range. The WSMR post could see wind speeds of 70 to 80 mph, described in a forecast as "high, potentially damaging winds."

Tuesday saw a cold front sweep through Las Cruces. Some rain, as well as high winds, were reported. There was also widespread dust in the area.

Bird said there's not likely to be as much widespread dust on Wednesday, though localized dust is possible. Rain showers are possible in the lower elevations, and snow showers are possible in the higher elevations, such as the Sacramento Mountains. Snow combined with driving winds could create hazardous driving conditions in mountain areas.

Diana Alba Soular may be reached at 575-541-5443, dalba@lcsun-news.com or @AlbaSoular on Twitter.

More:Tornadoes possible as wind kicks up in Carlsbad