Residents deal with snowy deluge

Overnight snowfall didn’t come as a surprise to many, but the amount that fell did.

“I knew it was going to snow, but I didn’t think it would snow this much,” said Dan Jones, a student at Eastern New Mexico University. “I really don’t want to dig my car out, but I have places to go today and I need food, so I have no choice.

According to the National Weather Service the snowfall in Portales between Friday night and Saturday morning was between nine and 10 inches.

link Derek Major: PNT photo

A front-end loader shovels a mound of snow on West Second Street in Portales Saturday morning.

Digging out was the order of the day across Portales or just taking advantage of the unusual opportunity to enjoy snow sports.

“It’s not exactly the slopes in Colorado, but it’ll do for today,” said Steven Howser. “I’m from Colorado, so I’m used to it and saw some kids out here sledding, so I grabbed my board and headed out.

According to Jason Frazier, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service, the storm has passed and the rest of the week should be warmer. Frazier said “the good news it should be dry and warmer the rest of the week.”

“So the snow should melt rather quickly during the day,” Frazier said, “but the temperatures will get low at night and there could be some stiff winds. However, it’s nothing this area hasn’t seen before so we’re not overly concerned.”

The Portales Police Department reported no accidents between Friday night and Saturday afternoon and New Mexico State Police said they did not receive any calls, suggesting the bulk of the snow came once many were already home or on their way home.

Roosevelt County Road Superintendent Ricky Lovato could not be reached for comment.

While temperatures will stay in the 30s today, Monday and Tuesday will see temperatures in the high-40s.

For some people the warm weather will be just fine.

“It’s nice to look at but once you get a picture with it all fresh and new, it’s just a big nuisance,” said. George Lacey, a retired postman. “Although for kids I guess it’s a big deal because of school closures and the opportunity to play.”