PNM: Power outages, shutoffs possible during upcoming storm in New Mexico
NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – The state's largest electric utility is bracing for the winds from an upcoming storm on Thursday. PNM said power outages are possible Thursday with gusts expected to reach up to 70 miles an hour in some areas. The East Mountains, Santa Fe, and Las Vegas are the most at risk.
Latest Weather Forecast
The winds could also lead to longer outages and PNM said it won't be safe to inspect or repair power lines until daybreak on Friday. The utility may even be forced to shut off power to keep areas safe. 'It's important to point out that PNM has not made a decision to implement public safety power shutoffs at this time, but we are mobilizing crews and resources in case it becomes necessary,' said Mike Mertz, Vice President of Operations, TXNM Energy. PNM said it will monitor a number of factors to determine if 'public safety power shutoffs' are necessary.
'It's not just one threshold. We take into consideration the fuel content in the area, the moisture that's in the soil or the fuel…and then windspeed,' said a PNM spokesperson. If the PSPS happens, PNM expects about 11,000 people in the East Mountains, 35,000 people in Santa Fe and the Cochiti Pueblo, and 2,300 people in Las Vegas to be impacted.
PNM said it will stay in contact with communities if those public safety shutoffs go into effect. Those decisions would likely be made Thursday morning.
PNM shared this call to action for customers:
Customers should sign up for outage alerts by texting #REG to 78766 from a phone number associated with their account. Then text #ALERT to 78766.
Customers should update their contact information at PNM.com/login or call us at 888-DIAL-PNM.
Given the widespread nature of the storm it is also possible that customers outside of these areas could experience extended power outages. Customers can report a power outage at PNM.com/outage or by texting #REG to 78766 and then #OUT to 78766. Customers can view the power outage map at PNM.com/outagemap.
Plan ahead. The American Red Cross advises steps to prepare for a power outage at: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/power-outage.html.
Learn more at PNM.com/wildfire-safety.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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