Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Temperatures in the 100s will impact eastern New Mexico by mid-week once again, according to Albuquerque's National Weather Service.
High temperatures are typical for this time of year, said Annette Mokry, meteorologist, adding that a high pressure system remains in place, continuing to deflect any potential storm systems from moving into the area. She said there is a 20 percent chance of isolated thunder storms on Wednesday and during the weekend.
Today's high temperature for Curry and Roosevelt County is forecast at 96 degrees, with temperatures set to return to triple digits on Wednesday (100) and Thursday (102).
Mokry said Clovis hit 104 degrees on Saturday and Portales came in at 107.
Clovis and Portales also saw 100 degrees last Thursday and Friday.
During high temperatures, residents should avoid prolonged exposure to the heat, said Dan Heerding, Clovis/Curry County emergency management director.
Heerding said between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. are the danger times. He said residents should slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
However, people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave than people living in rural areas, according to the American Red Cross website.
According to the website, asphalt and concrete store heat longer and gradually release heat at night, which can produce higher nighttime temperatures known as the "urban heat island effect."
Heerding said residents doing yard work or other activities during the heat of the day should plan breaks and stay hydrated by drinking water, avoiding drinks with caffeine and alcohol.
The Red Cross lists tips for preparing for a high heat watch/warning:
• Listen to local weather forecasts and stay aware of upcoming temperature changes.
• Be aware of both the temperature and the heat index. The heat index is the temperature the body feels when the effects of heat and humidity are combined.
• Discuss heat safety precautions with members of your household. Have a plan for wherever you spend timeS — home, work and schoolS — and prepare for power outages.
• Check the contents of your emergency disaster kit in case a power outage occurs.
• Know those in your neighborhood who are elderly, young, sick or overweight. They are more likely to become victims of excessive heat and may need help.
• If you do not have air conditioning, choose places you can go for relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day, such as schools, libraries, theaters and malls.
