(Albuquerque, NM) – PNM is closely monitoring extreme wind and weather in New Mexico particularly in the East Mountains and Las Vegas areas for Tuesday, March 18, which could increase the risk of wildfires and weather-related power outages. Due to excessively dry conditions and large amounts of fuel, wildfire risk will increase across the region, and is expected to peak on Tuesday, March 18.

We remind all of our customers, regardless of where they live, that strong winds could cause power outages tomorrow. We encourage our customers to prepare for potential power outages, especially those who rely on electricity for medical equipment. We continue to monitor weather, and crews are prepared to respond to outages.

Weather conditions can change quickly. PNM continuously monitors the weather by leveraging multiple weather forecasts and data to determine the best course of action to protect public safety. High winds, low relative humidity and dry ground conditions are key factors in our wildfire risk models. We update these models regularly and adjust operations to reduce wildfire risk.

System Sensitivity Controls Enabled

PNM has set system controls to be more sensitive in the East Mountains, Las Vegas, Clayton, Ruidoso, and Silver City areas to better protect public safety from wildfire risks. This measure will immediately stop the flow of energy if an object, such as a tree branch, touches the line. This tool is used to protect public safety by reducing the risk of wildfires and may result in the possibility of more power outages of extended duration.

PNM is evaluating a possible Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in East Mountains and Las Vegas on Tuesday, March 18. PNM has not made the decision to implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff at this time. PNM will notify customers who may be affected if a PSPS becomes necessary.

A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is when PNM is forced by extreme weather conditions to turn off power on parts of its system in order to avoid starting a wildfire. The Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is used to keep communities safe by preventing electrical equipment from becoming a possible ignition source. Strong winds, dry conditions, and fire threats can turn power lines into ignition sources. A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) helps prevent wildfires by shutting off power when these conditions pose a severe risk.

We are encouraging all customers to prepare for potential power disruptions by taking a few steps ahead of the weather:

Stay informed.

PNM is asking our customers to update their contact information with us so that we can provide notifications if a Public Safety Power Shutoff is planned. Update contact information at PNM.com/login or by calling us at 888-DIAL-PNM.

Stay safe.

Stay away from downed power lines. If you see a downed power line, do not touch it or anything in contact with it. Call 911 and PNM immediately at 888-DIAL-PNM. Always consider a power line energized and dangerous. 

The American Red Cross advises customers prepare a power outage kit including water, food, flashlights, and medications. For more tips from the American Red Cross visit https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/power-outage.html  

If someone in your home relies on electric-powered medical equipment, have a backup power source and enroll in PNM's LifeWatch program for notifications at PNM.com/LifeWatch. 

Report an outage.

PNM may not be aware of an outage in your area unless your report it by: texting #REG to 78766 and then #OUT to 78766, going online at PNM.com/outage, or calling us at 888-DIAL-PNM. Sign up for Outage Alerts by texting #ALERT to 78766. 

For outage updates, visit PNM.com/outagemap.

For more information on wildfire safety, visit PNM.com/Wildfire-Safety.