Major Winter Storm Hits New Mexico and Colorado, Causing Power Outages and Travel Disruptions

The state of New Mexico and parts of Colorado are grappling with the aftermath of the first significant winter storm of the season, which swept through the region, causing widespread power outages and travel disruptions. The storm brought heavy snow and strong winds, affecting tens of thousands of residents and forcing the closure of schools and government offices.

Power Outages and Efforts to Restore Service

Tens of thousands of residents in New Mexico were left without electricity as the storm moved across the northern two-thirds of the state and into Colorado. The Public Service Company of New Mexico mobilized numerous crews to address the widespread outages that were reported overnight and in the early morning hours. The utility company estimated that approximately 41,000 customers were still affected by the outages, urging residents to exercise patience while they worked to restore power.

Disruptions in Education and Travel

The storm also had a significant impact on education in the region, with schools in Santa Fe, Los Alamos, and other areas across northern New Mexico canceling classes. Authorities advised residents to stay off the roads due to dangerous driving conditions caused by low visibility and blowing snow. Plows were actively engaged in clearing major highways, but the state police announced the closure of Interstate 25 just south of the Colorado border in both directions.

Severe Weather Warnings

The National Weather Service in Albuquerque issued a blizzard warning for parts of the state, indicating the severity of the storm. They reported that over 100 vehicles were stranded on highways in the state's northeast corner, highlighting the perilous conditions that travelers faced. Meanwhile, residents in Colorado faced similar challenges, with Interstate 70 across the Eastern Plains being closed. The weather service warned of “very dangerous driving conditions” that were exacerbated by low visibility caused by blowing snow.

Snow Accumulation and Impact

The storm brought considerable snowfall to the affected regions, with some areas in Colorado reportedly receiving over 14 inches (35.56 centimeters) of snow already on the ground on Thursday. The National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center forecasted that the storm could lead to extensive and widespread disruptions, with the potential for between 1 and 2 inches (5 centimeters) of snow falling within an hour in certain locations.

In central New Mexico, the storm transformed the rural area of Corona into a winter wonderland, with pastures blanketed in thick snow and tree branches bowing under the weight of fresh powder. Tonja Goode Ross, a resident of the area, expressed her appreciation for the moisture, stating that it was a blessing regardless of its form.

Severe Weather Forecast

The weather service warned that the storm had the potential to bring historic amounts of snow through Friday, with more than 4 feet (1.22 meters) expected in some regions. Forecasters also cautioned that snow drifts could exceed 6 feet (1.83 meters), rendering travel impossible in certain areas, potentially for several days.

Preparedness and Safety Measures

As the storm continued to bring adverse weather conditions to New Mexico and Colorado, residents were advised to stay informed about weather updates and adhere to safety recommendations from authorities. The situation highlighted the importance of preparedness and taking necessary precautions during severe weather events.

In conclusion, the first major winter storm of the season has significantly impacted New Mexico and Colorado, leading to power outages, school closures, and hazardous travel conditions. Residents are urged to prioritize safety and stay updated on the evolving situation.