Tumbleweeds roll across region

The Sunday night wind storm has created a "tumbleweed nightmare" across much of the region, according to a news release from Roosevelt County.

"Many of the roads throughout (Roosevelt County) have sustained a large influx of the weeds. Substantial blockages have also been reported on some state highways," including NM 114, NM 236, NM 330, and NM 202, the release stated.

"If you come to a road blocked by tumbleweeds, we urge you to not drive through the piles of weeds as you could damage your vehicle or start a fire."

Curry County also was working Monday morning to clear rural roads. The only road still blocked by tumbleweeds late Monday morning was CR 12 near Melrose, officials said. That road was expected to be clear soon.

Roosevelt County Road Superintendent Rick Lovato warned tumbleweeds will likely be "an ongoing challenge" throughout this year and into spring.

"We want to encourage property owners to protect their homes as we are facing an increased fire danger with so much more fuel this year," he said.

Area road department contact information:

Roosevelt County: 575-356-5942

Curry County: 575-762-1501