In response to the dropping mercury and the resultant ice-slicked streets, the City of Las Cruces has swung into action with a schedule adjustment for its non-emergency services come Friday. In what’s described as a move of caution, there's to be a two-hour delayed start to the workday for these operations, per a city announcement. When the clock strikes 10 in the morning, that's when doors will swing open at public facilities not doubling as warming stations.
All was confirmed by the city on their official website, with a notice placed that also highlighted how Roadrunner Transit plans to follow suit, but only partly, buses will roll out at 8:30 a.m., giving a slight head start to commuters braving the cold snap. Thursday had already seen an early shuttering of the same facilities, at 3 p.m., as ribs of ice crept across the city's veins, yet essential services such as the police and fire departments remained steadfast, unaffected by the chill, according to the City of Las Cruces.
The city has taken care to remind those facing the cold to remain vigilant and gear up appropriately. They advise limiting exposure to the outdoors, driving with increased caution, and keeping vehicles stocked with blankets, water, and winter attire for emergencies. "Use extreme caution when driving," the city warned, "Reduce speeds and increase distance between other motorists as roadways may be icy," as per the City of Las Cruces. Getting stranded without essentials in such weather can swiftly turn from inconvenience to peril, hence the importance of preparation.
