Wind leaves 3,500 without power in East Mtns.

April 04, 2011

About 3500 East Mountain residents are without power Sunday afternoon after high winds snapped more than half a dozen power poles. New Mexico Electric Co-op says they have several crews out restoring power but are unsure of how long it will take. High wind warnings were forecasted across the state into Sunday evening, as firefighters continue to battle wildfires in central and southern New Mexico. The state's Environmental Health Dept. has issued a health warning for people to stay inside and to close windows to prevent blowing dust. The dust has also affected road visibility and driving conditions. The Sandia Tram and High Finance Restaurant was also closed due to weather.