Mayor Payne Speaks on Microburst and Planned Saturday Protest

On Thursday just after work many Alamogordo citizens were greeted to a microburst weather event which caused havac to the local community. The microburst burst began at approximately 6:38 and ended at 6:50. 

A microburst is a localized, intense downburst of air, usually associated with thunderstorms, that can cause strong winds and wind shear, posing a significant hazard to aircraft. These events are short-lived, typically lasting only a few minutes, and can be difficult to predict. 

The result of this microburst was a power outage to over 2000 businesses and homes and roof damage to S & T bait and tackle at the Granada Center resulting in a roof collapse. The Alamogordo Fire Department was rushed to the scene and had to enter the rubble and shut off the building gas to ensure no explosions. This was a dangerous task for executed quickly and successfully.

The mayor and city leaders were nearby in a public workshop at the civic center during the weather event.

Mayor Payne spoke to Alamogordo Town News concerning this event and the planned protest and can be heard via the link below...

https://youtu.be/1gd1KsWR4yI?si=lMxhAwc0peP1TXm8

Other businesses at Granada Center will be open today. Power, TDS services and gas is restored to all areas of the city as of 5 am on Friday per all utilities entities.

Not related to the microburst but happened at ths same time was a fire in Alamodoso between La Luz and Tularosa adding to the pressure on first responders in the area. All individuals and animals were evacuated and safe from that incident as well. 

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