Severe weather can bring big challenges to a small Village

Jan. 09--The recent major snowfall of 2018 saw some 40 inches of snow, 27 minor car accidents with no serious injuries, several cars sliding on the roads, and many residents not being able to leave their homes because they could not get their driveways plowed. It has been advised by the Ruidoso Police Department to stay off the roads during these types of severe weather conditions and to be better prepared for the future.

In the wake of the recent snow storm that dumped an incredible amount of snow in a very short amount of time on the Village and surrounding areas, timely preparation for the aftermath of mother nature's wrath should always be taken into consideration. Whether traveling on the roads or becoming snowed in, having the necessary supplies to last throughout the harsh time is essential as the conditions may last for days.

"People need to stay off the roads in these conditions unless they absolutely need to be somewhere. We had a few minor fender benders with no major injuries and some cars sliding off the roads trying to get up a hill. Nothing major or serious," Ruidoso Police Department Chief Darren Hooker said.

"We were not expecting this much snow and we haven't seen this big of a storm for some twenty years when it was a common occurrence during the winter. It was a lot of snow over a very short period."

As the storm continued over the days, phone calls to 911 were flooding the lines at the Ruidoso Police Department (RPD) on Mechem drive. Calls to Village rang out concerning what roads were going to be plowed, (when and where), at an alarming rate.

Crews and workers began plowing as soon as they were able to. It had been predicted that only a few inches of snow would fall on the Village, however a shift in the weather pattern dumped an unbelievable amount of snow on Lincoln County that continued for days.

"Village workers, road crews and the RPD all pulled together responding as quick as possible to all calls. However, people should not dial 911 unless it is an emergency," Hooker said.

"Local towing companies were over-whelmed with the amount of calls they received during the first hour. Inability to move about in vehicles in these conditions should always be taken into consideration. Two-wheel drive vehicles are not recommended to be out on the roads during a snow storm, they just are not optimal in these conditions."

Whenever traveling to the mountains or the dessert, having supplies in your vehicle is always recommended for the safety of yourself and/or your family members and pets. Road flares, a good spare tire and jumper cables are must haves in severe weather.

"You need to prepare yourself no matter where you are going. It is always a good idea to have supplies in your vehicle when traveling, no matter where you are going. You just never know what the road conditions may be trying to get to your destination," Hooker said.

One should always consider that when a storm of this magnitude hits, having supplies at home is always recommended. Shelves at stores are depleted very quickly during the holidays, especially when skiing is optimal, and tourism is at a high.

"Having water, food, flash lights and the like at your resident is always recommended during the winter months. Power may go out at any time and it can be days before roads are clear enough that you can leave your home to get to a store," Hooker said.

Related:Winter storm brings adventures to the Village

Additionally, it is the responsibility of business owners to maintain private property (the Village does not maintain private roads or drives). The midtown association has purchased some 1200 pounds of salt in preparation for the months to follow.

Since it is still the beginning of January, planning for future snow storms, like what the Village saw last month, is urged. While the roads are free and clear of ice and snow currently, it is recommended to stock up on supplies before another potential storm hits.

Weather prediction is not always 100 percent accurate, as the Village saw a very short time ago, and it is possible that this pattern may continue for the months ahead.

It should be considered that when visiting Ruidoso, or any mountain area, that carrying a set of tire chains in your vehicle is highly advisable. Many tourists that visit during the winter months plan to head up to Ski Apache.

The road is well maintained; however, conditions can change from hour to hour making it difficult to venture up the five miles plus drive, and chains are often required. Safety first; finding out what the road conditions are like before traveling anywhere can prevent major accidents on the roads.

When considering travel during snowfall or severe weather conditions, visit www.nmroads.com or dial 511 for road conditions.

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