DEMING – The National Weather Service has issued the first Freeze Watch of the season for the Mimbres Valley and all of Luna County, with temperatures expected to drop to their lowest levels so far this fall. The watch is in effect late tonight through Thursday morning, with early morning lows expected between 30 and 33 degrees in many areas.
The National Weather Service says frost and freeze conditions could damage gardens, tender plants, and any unprotected outdoor plumbing. Residents are encouraged to take precautions today, especially before sunset, when plants and exposed pipes can still retain warmth.
This is the first significant cold snap of the season, and the familiar reminder applies: Protect the four P’s — people, pets, plants, and pipes. Bring pets indoors or provide insulated shelter, cover or move sensitive plants into protected spaces, and wrap outdoor pipes or disconnect hoses to help prevent freezing.
The chill will be most noticeable across the open desert areas of Luna County and the Mimbres Basin, where calm overnight winds allow cold air to settle quickly. By Thursday afternoon, temperatures are expected to recover under sunny skies, with daytime highs returning to more comfortable levels.
Residents planning early morning activities are advised to dress warmly and allow extra time for frost on windshields Thursday morning.