Bulletin report

DEMING – The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) will work with law enforcement to monitor road conditions as a Winter Storm Advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) on November 5, 2024, see attached Winter Storm Briefing .

The NMDOT has prepared their personnel and equipment to support the needs of law enforcement and first responders. NMDOT will work with emergency responders as we coordinate our efforts with any traffic disruptions we may encounter.

Traffic updates will be posted on the NMDOT traffic advisory website at http://nmroads.com as they are reported and can be retrieved through our automated system at 511 in State, or 1-800-432-4269.

Tips to know:

• LOWER YOUR SPEED
• The best prevention of accidents on snow and ice is to SLOW DOWN and leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front of you in case of an emergency.
• PRACTICE GOOD DRIVING TECHNIQUES IN WINTER
• Keep your gas tank full, turn on your headlights, keep your windshield washer fluid full of antifreeze, keep winter chains in your vehicle, have a winter survival kit that includes: flashlight, hand warmer packs, first aid supplies, high energy snacks, bottled water, medications and read your owner’s manual for special instructions for driving four-wheel drive vehicles and vehicles with ABS on snow and ice.
• AVOID DRIVING IN A SNOW CLOUD
• Large vehicles, such as semi-trailer trucks and snow plows, can produce dense snow clouds that make it difficult for drivers to see. When motorists encounter snow clouds, they should stay back to avoid the cloud.
• PLAN AHEAD AND BE PATIENT
• Delays are common in bad weather. Leave a little early and be patient with delays.
• CHECK BEFORE YOU GO
• Know where a snowplow and blade are before attempting to pass. On multi-lane highways, the plow may be in your blind spot. Before attempting to pass, make sure it is safe.
• PAY ATTENTION TO THE WEATHER FORECAST – TRUST IT
• Winter storms in New Mexico can quickly become severe, so keep an eye on the weather forecast when planning your trip.
• DO NOT USE CRUISE CONTROL
• Never use cruise control when the roads are slippery. Using your cruise control can reduce your control of the vehicle if your tires begin to slip or skid.
• KNOW YOUR CURRENT ROAD CONDITIONS
• Visit the NMDOT website for current road advisory information at http://nmroads.com, or call 511 in the state.
• WEAR YOUR SEAT BELT
• Wear your seat belt and make sure all passengers “buckle up” as well.