A powerful early-season winter storm recently stranded around 100 drivers in New Mexico, causing significant disruptions and highlighting the dangers of unpredictable weather. The storm, which hit northern New Mexico and Colorado on Thursday, led to near-blizzard conditions with snowdrifts reaching up to 8 feet and wind gusts of 40 mph.
What Happened?
In Union County, a jackknifed semitruck blocked traffic on U.S. Highway 64/87, creating a major traffic jam that trapped dozens of drivers in freezing temperatures. With snow piling up, many vehicles, particularly small cars, struggled to move through the heavy snow, leaving emergency responders scrambling to free those stuck.
“Most everybody that’s out here is in some sort of a small car, and it’s almost impossible to get them free without moving major snow amounts, but we are trying,” said Kristopher Lawrence, Union County’s emergency manager.
Why is This Early Snowstorm Concerning?
While winter storms are not unusual for this region, the early arrival and severity of this storm raise concerns about an overall trend of more extreme and unpredictable weather. Las Vegas, New Mexico, has already tied its November snowfall record with 24 inches, and some parts of Colorado have received up to 36 inches in just three days.
These extreme storms pose significant risks, including power outages, hazardous travel conditions, and stretched emergency resources. Over 30,000 New Mexico residents lost power, and emergency teams have worked tirelessly to assist stranded motorists.
Efforts to Assist Affected Areas
To assist those trapped in the storm, emergency responders, including the New Mexico National Guard, have been working around the clock. Local emergency services have issued guidelines to help stranded motorists stay safe, advising drivers to run their vehicles for short periods to avoid carbon monoxide buildup while staying warm.
How to Stay Safe During Winter Storms
This event serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for winter storms. Travelers in areas prone to extreme weather should always have an emergency kit in their vehicle, including warm blankets, extra food and water, a flashlight with spare batteries, and a fully charged portable phone battery. Being well-prepared not only helps keep you and your family safe but also supports first responders by reducing the need for urgent rescues.
Communities in the affected areas have come together, helping one another during this challenging time. Emergency managers continue to provide crucial guidance while road crews work hard to clear the highways and rescue stranded drivers.
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