A Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Las Cruces and University Park remains in effect until 5:15 p.m. MDT, with the National Weather Service flagging the potential for damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph and penny-sized hail. Radar earlier this afternoon showed the main storm cell about 6 miles west of Organ and sliding southeast at roughly 25 mph. Officials cautioned that the strongest winds and hail could snap branches, damage roofs and make driving hazardous.
According to KVIA, the National Weather Service issued the warning after analysts spotted a particularly strong cell over southern Dona Ana County. KVIA notes that the alert was active through 5:15 p.m. MDT and underscores the potential for 70 mph gusts and penny-sized hail. Local authorities urged residents in the warned area to head indoors and stay put until conditions settle down.
Storm Track and Hazards
Radar logs compiled by Interactive Hail Maps trace the storm as it passed over Mesilla and then organized roughly 6 miles west of Organ before continuing southeast at about 25 mph. The logs list the primary hazards as damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph and penny-sized hail, which can shatter vehicle glass and injure people and animals caught outdoors. The warning area includes central and eastern portions of Dona Ana County, taking in University Park and surrounding neighborhoods.
How To Stay Safe
The National Weather Service explains that a "Severe Thunderstorm Warning" means "Take Action!" and advises people in the warned area to seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building away from windows. For detailed guidance on where to shelter, why it is smart to stay off the roads in high winds, and how to secure loose outdoor items, see the National Weather Service page on thunderstorm safety. Residents are also urged to be ready for potential power outages and to steer clear of any downed power lines.
Conditions across the Borderland can change fast, so anyone inside the warning polygon should keep an ear on local media and NOAA Weather Radio until forecasters declare the threat over. This story will be updated if the National Weather Service or KVIA reports the warning has been extended or canceled.
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