Summary
An unusually powerful early-season snowstorm is slamming New Mexico and Colorado, bringing extreme snowfall, high winds, and widespread disruptions. Weather warnings, emergency declarations, and heavy snow accumulation are affecting large portions of the region, creating hazardous travel conditions and prompting state officials to mobilize resources.
Blizzard Warnings and Statewide Emergency in New Mexico
In northern New Mexico, a blizzard warning is in effect as a combination of intense snowfall and high winds severely reduces visibility, creating treacherous conditions. Snow accumulation is expected to reach up to 4 feet in some areas, marking a historic early-season snowfall for the region. In response, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham issued two statewide emergency declarations, deploying resources to support local responders dealing with the storm.
“This declaration gives the state more resources to continue supporting local responders as this major snowstorm persists,” Governor Lujan Grisham said in a statement Thursday. She expressed gratitude for the state’s first responders who have been working tirelessly in freezing conditions, assisting stranded motorists, clearing roads, and helping citizens impacted by the storm.
Rescue Efforts and Road Closures Across New Mexico
Since the storm began on Wednesday, New Mexico State Police have responded to numerous calls for assistance, rescuing stranded motorists across the state. The New Mexico Department of Transportation, along with the New Mexico National Guard, has been active in clearing roads, but the rapidly accumulating snow has created continuous challenges. Authorities urge residents to avoid travel in affected areas until conditions improve.
Heavy Snow and School Closures in Colorado
In Colorado, the storm has delivered up to 18 inches of snow in locations such as Pueblo and Colorado Springs, with snowfall continuing into Friday. Denver, under a winter storm warning, is expected to receive between 8 to 16 inches of snow by the end of the day, leading local officials to cancel schools for Friday.
The Colorado Department of Transportation warns that major weather impacts are anticipated in eastern parts of the state, with travel likely becoming “impossible” in areas east and southeast of Denver.
The National Weather Service in Boulder emphasized the severity of the conditions, saying on social media, “Conditions will worsen through the day and evening as heavy snow spreads northwest across the area. Impossible travel east and southeast of Denver!”
Flood Threats in Texas and Oklahoma as Storm System Shifts East
As the storm moves northeast, it’s expected to bring heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding to parts of Texas and Oklahoma on Friday. Some areas could see up to 5 inches of rain, prompting flash flood warnings in low-lying regions. Local officials have advised residents to be prepared for flooding and possible evacuation orders.
Storm Headed to Mississippi River Valley
The storm system will continue its journey north and east, impacting a large swath of the Mississippi River Valley, including parts of Tennessee, Louisiana, and surrounding areas by Saturday. Heavy rainfall in these areas could lead to localized flooding, adding to the weather challenges faced by residents along the storm’s path.
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