Power shutoff possible in East Mountains due to high fire risk
WINDOW ROCK
Bernalillo County and Public Service Company of New Mexico officials are warning residents in the East Mountains of a potential public safety power shutoff due to high fire danger.
The shutoff, if implemented, could occur today between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. and may last up to 30 hours. PNM stated on its website to its customers that it has not yet made a final decision on whether to proceed with the shutoff but continues to evaluate conditions.
To protect against wildfire risks, PNM has adjusted system controls to be more sensitive in fire-prone areas, including the East Mountains, Las Vegas, Clayton, Ruidoso, and Silver City. Officials are urging customers to prepare for possible weather-related power outages by unplugging appliances and planning for an extended loss of electricity.
During an outage, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, a U.S. federal agency that coordinates responses to disasters nationwide, residents should turn off or unplug electrical appliances to prevent damage when power is restored, leaving one light on as an indicator. Refrigerator and freezer doors should remain closed to keep food cold, and dry or block ice can help if the outage lasts more than four hours. For lighting, officials recommend using flashlights or flameless LED candles to reduce fire risks.
Staying comfortable during a power outage depends on the season. In the summer, residents should move to the lowest level of their home, wear light clothing, and drink plenty of water, according to FEMA. Air-conditioned locations, such as shopping malls or theaters, can provide relief. In winter, dressing in layers is the best way to stay warm.
For those using a generator, PNM advises consulting an electrician before installation. Generators must always be used outdoors and never inside a home or garage. They should not be connected directly to a home’s electrical system.
PNM and county officials will continue monitoring conditions and provide updates as needed. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for any potential power disruptions.
Customers can report an outage by texting #REG to 78766, then #OUT, or by visiting PNM.com/outage. Outages can also be reported by calling 888-DIAL-PNM. To receive outage alerts, customers can text #REG to 78766, then #ALERT.
Highway 264,
I-40, WB @ Winslow