DEMING – The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning and travel advisory for southern New Mexico including Deming on Tuesday and Wednesday, May 13 and 14, due to expected strong winds and widespread blowing dust.
Local Wind speeds are forecasted to reach sustained levels between 25 and 35 miles per hour, with gusts peaking between 45 and 55 mph—especially from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. each day. The advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Drivers are strongly urged to delay travel if possible or monitor www.nmroads.com for the latest road conditions. Blowing dust may quickly lead to zero visibility in open and rural areas, raising the risk of serious accidents. Officials stress that if a dust storm is visible or encountered, motorists should:
- Never drive into or through blowing dust.
- Pull completely off the road as soon as it is safe.
- Turn off all lights and keep feet off the brake pedal.
- Remain in the vehicle with seat belts fastened until conditions improve.
High-profile vehicles are at greater risk during high wind events and should reduce speed or delay travel altogether.
Due to the hazardous forecast, Luna County government offices will close at 2 p.m. on Tuesday. The City of Deming has also announced early closures for non-patrol police staff, the city library, the DMV, and Municipal Court—all of which will shut down Tuesday morning at 11 a.m.
Deming Public Schools will operate on a two-hour delay Tuesday, with parents advised to check their child’s school website for specific dismissal times and updates.
The New Mexico Department of Transportation and local law enforcement will continue to monitor conditions and issue updates. For more information, visit www.nmroads.com or call 511.
For more state and local news, log onto KDEMFM.com or our Facebook page, keyword Deming Radio.