Rain anticipated to fall in the Las Cruces area Thursday evening and into Friday could make for difficult driving conditions in Southern New Mexico.
Las Cruces police encourage motorists drive with extreme caution and avoid traveling through flooded areas.
Motorists and fellow residents are urged to follow these and other safety tips:
• Motorists should slow down and allow for more travel time when driving in wet weather.
• When coming to a stop, motorists should begin slowing down sooner and apply gentle brake pressure. Avoid slamming on brakes.
• Drivers should 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 for safety and stay 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.
• Get indoors when lightning is seen or when thunder is heard.
• Lightning tends to strike taller objects, so avoid open areas and especially keep from being at or near tallest object in an open area.
• Stay away from tall trees, utility poles, towers and any body of water.
• If you’re in a group of people and unable to take shelter, have the group spread out. Doing so will prevent multiple casualties during a lightning strike and will increase the chance that someone can help if an injury occurs.
• Keep away from electrical equipment, corded telephones and plumbing during a storm. Don’t swim, shower, bathe or wash dishes during a lightning storm.
• Stay clear of and avoid driving over any downed power lines.