The National Weather Service, in Santa Teresa, has issued a Heat Advisory for southern Doña Ana County – including Las Cruces – and southern Otero County.
The Heat Advisory began at noon Friday, June 11 and will continue to midnight Saturday, June 12. A Heat Advisory cautions residents of the potential for excessive heat which can pose threats to human life through conditions such as heat stroke.
On Thursday, Las Cruces recorded its first day of triple-digit heat in 2021, reaching 102 degrees at Las Cruces International Airport. The National Weather Service forecast includes high temperatures of 105 on Friday and 107 Saturday in Las Cruces. Temperatures exceeding 100 degrees are expected to continue Sunday, with a forecast high of 104, and Monday, when Las Cruces’ temperature could reach 102.
Extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.
As the hot temperatures continue, residents are urged to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
Residents should also take extra precautions if they work or are going to spend time outdoors. Strenuous activities should be rescheduled to early morning hours or
the evening. People should also consider wearing lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible.
Las Crucens are also reminded that cooling stations – which offer temporary shelter from the heat for elderly, high-risk and general residents – will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Monday at: Frank O’Brien Papen Community Center, 304 W. Bell Ave.; Henry R. Benavidez Community Center,1045 McClure Road; Meerscheidt Recreation Center, 1600 E. Hadley Ave.; Munson Center, 975 S. Mesquite St.; Sage Café, 6121 Reynolds Drive; and Thomas Branigan Memorial Library.
On Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., cooling stations will be open at Branigan Memorial Library, 200 E. Picacho Ave. and Meerscheidt Recreation Center, 1600 E. Hadley Ave.
Keep up with the latest weather conditions through the National Weather Service website.