Arctic Blast to Move Through Area This Weekend

RUIDOSO, NM – February 12, 2021– An arctic air mass will be moving through the state this weekend and is expected to bring record-breaking temps, significant snow, and strong gap winds to our area starting Saturday through Tuesday. The most significant precipitation is forecasted for Saturday and Sunday. As the front pushes through expect strong gap winds Sunday into Monday. Extreme cold, dangerous wind chills, snow, and blowing snow will make travel difficult.

According to Joe Kasuboski, the Emergency Manager for the Village of Ruidoso: “When we have an extended period of sub-freezing temperatures and dangerous wind chills, it increases the risk for frostbite and exposed pipes may burst. It is important to gather any supplies including groceries and medications ahead of the weather event. Also, make sure your heaters are working properly and that all outside faucets that have the potential to freeze are protected. Keep your pets inside, and please stay off the roads.”

Crews from the Village of Ruidoso will be closely monitoring the weather system throughout the weekend and treating roads in order of priority as outlined in the Village of Ruidoso Snow/Ice Control Plan. Please keep in mind that once temperatures hit 18 degrees Fahrenheit salt does not melt ice, and it is best to stay off the roads.

The Ruidoso Fire and Police Departments will be on heightened alert as it is expected that more residents will be using fireplaces and stoves as heating sources and with hazardous travel conditions expected. Snow and blowing snow will create difficult or impossible travel conditions including icy, snow-packed roads, poor visibility, and snowdrifts. Please stay home unless it is absolutely necessary to go out.

Additional information will be posted on Ruidoso-NM.gov or tune into KRUI 1490 AM.