Fire, Police Monitor Weather Conditions

The Las Cruces fire and police departments have reported no major incidents or severe flooding within city limits after rains began falling Tuesday afternoon.

The National Weather Service has forecast more rain to fall in Las Cruces and surrounding areas through the week. Fire and police will continue monitoring weather conditions and respond to incidents accordingly.

A limited number of sandbags — only five per vehicle — are available at Las Cruces Fire Station 1, 201 E. Picacho Ave., and at Las Cruces Public Works, 1501 E. Hadley Ave.

The National Weather Service campaign, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown,” warns motorists and pedestrians to avoid passing through floodwaters. That advice should be heeded, along with these tips provided by the Las Cruces fire and police departments.

• When possible, avoid unnecessary travel during rainstorms and immediately after rainfall as roadways can be slick or, in some cases, flooded.
• Motorists should slow down and allow for more travel time when driving in wet weather.
• When coming to a stop, avoid slamming on brakes. Instead, slow down sooner and apply gentle brake pressure.
• Allow for greater distance between vehicles. Normal driving conditions recommend travelling at least three seconds behind vehicles. During wet weather and on slick roads, it is recommended to increase that distance.
• Give larger vehicles, like trucks and buses, more room for stops and turns.
• Avoid making sudden turns or lane changes.
• Drive around puddles as sitting water may be deeper than what it appears.
• Never attempt to drive or walk through flooded arroyos or running water. Even when driving a large vehicle, like a truck or SUV, fast-moving water can easily overcome it.
• Watch for sand, rocks and debris that may have washed onto roadways.
• Drive with headlights on for safety and stay alert to surrounding traffic and changing weather conditions.
• If rain is too heavy or streets are flooded, pull over a safe distance from the roadway – in a parking lot or away from traffic – until weather and driving conditions improve.

Las Cruces fire and police are working closely with the Dona Ana County Office of Emergency Management to monitor weather conditions and help provide updates during this week’s rainstorm.