The National Weather Service (NWS) is warning residents of New Mexico and North Dakota about harsh winter weather throughout their states as arctic blasts are set to hit parts of the country heading into the weekend.
Why It Matters
Winter storms pose major risks to health and safety, putting stricken residents in danger due to extreme cold and often paralyzing travel. Homeless people and others outdoors are particularly at risk for conditions like hypothermia and frostbite when temperatures drop below freezing.
What To Know
NWS issued high wind watches and warnings for multiple parts of New Mexico on Thursday, while also issuing a special weather statement for most of the state due to arctic blasts that are expected to arrive in the state over the weekend and continue into early next week.
“An arctic cold front is set to arrive in eastern New Mexico late Friday into Saturday, followed by a second surge of frigid air arriving on Monday,” the special weather statement reads. “This will lead to a long-duration of very cold, sub-freezing temperatures with bitter wind chills, especially in eastern and northeastern New Mexico. This will create a high risk of frostbite and hypothermia for anyone outside.”
“Light snow will accompany these harsh cold fronts, creating areas of slick travel and reduced visibility in snow and blowing snow,” it continues. “Residents, especially those in eastern New Mexico should begin making preparations for the cold, including precautions for people, plants, pipes, and pets.”…