Posted September 10th, 2013: 9:10 am

The New Mexico Department of Transportation has closed part of NM-211 from mile marker 3 to 4 in the Bear Creek Area due to flooding and rising water, which has  “created an unsafe roadway.”  NM-159 in Mogollon remains closed due to flooding and debris in the roadway.  The NMDOT will continue to monitor all areas of the states as rain continues in our area for the next few days.

A warning from the NMDOT:

Motorists are advised not to underestimate the force of water. Most high profile vehicles lose contact with the road in 6 inches of water, which can sweep your vehicle off the roadway. Do not attempt to cross overflowing roadways, and please do not drive around barricades.

For more information and road closures, visit the NMDOT website at www.nmroads.com or call 511 in state or 1-800-432-4269 out of state.

Turn around, don’t drown.

 

Update September 10th, 2013: 3:00 pm

The NMDOT has closed NM-174 from mile marker 1 to 4 at Catwalk Road in Glenwood due to flooding and rising waters.  the area will reopen once it is deemed safe to the public.

Here are some safety tips from provided by the Las Cruces Police Department:

  • Slow down. Allow for more travel time when driving in wet weather.
  • When coming to a stop, begin slowing down sooner and apply gentle brake pressure. Avoid slamming on brakes.
  • Allow for greater distance between vehicles. Normal driving conditions recommend travelling at least two seconds behind vehicles. During wet weather it is recommended to increase that distance.
  • Give larger vehicles, like trucks and buses, more room for stops and turns.
  • Avoid making sudden turns or lane changes.
  • Drive around puddles as sitting water may be deeper than what it appears.
  • Never attempt to drive through flooded arroyos or running water. Even when driving a large vehicle, like a truck or SUV, fast-moving water can easily overcome it.
  • Drive with headlights on and be alert to surrounding traffic and changing weather conditions.
  • If rain is too heavy or streets are flooded, pull over to a safe distance from the roadway – in a parking lot or away from traffic – until conditions improve.