Las Cruces residents should be aware of an extended period of triple-digit heat and hot, dry weather that is expected to continue through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service, in Santa Teresa, an unusually strong high-pressure system aloft will keep skies mainly clear and resulting in temperatures close to 10 degrees above average this weekend and early next week. Since July 5, Las Cruces’ high temperatures have ranged from 101 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Saturday and Sunday, temperatures could get as hot as 106 degrees or possibly hotter. A Heat Advisory, issued by the National Weather Service, went into effect at 6 a.m. Friday, July 10 and is supposed to continue to 6 a.m. Monday. The advisory warns of a high heat risk for much of Doña County’s population , especially for people who are sensitive to the heat and those without effective cooling or adequate hydration.
By early next week, some moisture could return to portions of the Borderland helping produce at least a few scattered storms and lowering temperatures by a few degrees.
From Thursday, July 9 through Tuesday, July 14, extreme heat will be the primary threat in Las Cruces and throughout much of southern New Mexico. Daytime high temperatures are forecasted to remain in the triple digits through Thursday. Heat related health issues are possible for any City residents who are regularly exposed to the heat or are participating in outdoor activities.
Las Cruces residents should keep in mind they may need to adjust their plans based on the latest health and safety guidelines from Centers for Disease Control. Residents are encouraged to seek out cooling shelters that may become available,
Las Crucens should monitor the latest forecasts and any possible warnings for updates. Current National Weather Service forecasts can be found online at: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?zoneid=NMZ411&zflg=1. Anyone with a mobile phone can get updated Weather Service conditions and forecasts by entering mobile.weather.gov on their phone browser.
Residents are also reminded to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors. They should also take extra precautions if they are planning to work or spend time outside during the coming week. When possible, strenuous activities should be rescheduled to early morning or evening hours.
They are also urged to know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion symptoms include: Headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting; weakness and moist skin; irritability or confusion; and an upset stomach. Heat stroke symptoms include dry, hot skin with no sweating; mental confusion or loss of consciousness; and seizures or convulsions. Heat stroke is an emergency and residents should call 911 if anyone is experiencing those symptoms.
People at a higher risk of heat-related illness include: infants and young children; older adults; people with disabilities; anyone with chronic heart or lung problems; overweight persons; those who work outdoors or in hot settings; users of some medications, especially some drugs for mental disorders, movement disorders, allergies, depression, and heart and circulatory problems; and isolated persons who won’t know when or how to cool off or call for help.
Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.