Cloudcroft-area evacuations offered

CLOUDCROFT, N. M. (KRQE) - Cloudcroft-area residents needing evacuation from the wind disaster that struck the mountain community overnight are being offered shelter in the Alamogordo Civic Center.

Residents needing help are being asked to call 911, and arrangements will be made to evacuate them.

Authorities who are able and willing to stay in their homes can call 575-682-3473 if they need supplies of gas, propane firewood or other items.

A command post has been set up at the Cloudcroft Fire Bay on James Canyon Highway in Cloudcroft.

Otero Electric is reporting the entire top of the mountain is without electricity after violent winds brought down trees on transmissions lines. About 5,000 homes and businesses in Timberon, Sunspot, Cloudcroft, Mayhill, Sacramento, Weed and Piñon are without power while service is spotty in High Rolls.

It may be several days before electricity is restored.

The Alamogordo shelter is at 801 1st St. The American Red Cross is bringing in cots and bedding for 100 while the Salvation Army is working to arrange meals.

As of about 4 p.m. no evacuees had arrived at the shelter, but by early evening 15 mountain residents had checked in.

Ruidoso residents lacking electricity and needing a place to stay can call the Ruidoso fire station at 575-257-3473 for assistance.