New Mexico Gas, Water Agencies Warn Residents of Upcoming First Freeze

As Albuquerque prepares for its first taste of winter, gas and water utilities are reminding residents to take precautions ahead of the coming freeze. With temperatures dropping after a warm October, the New Mexico Gas Company (NMGC) and the Water Utility Authority are advising customers to prepare early.

“It’s getting colder now, but it’ll be much colder later. It’s generally easier to handle these preparations before the extreme cold hits,” said Tim Korte from NMGC. KRQE meteorologists note that the first freeze usually arrives around this time of year, but it may feel abrupt following the recent mild weather.

David Morris with the Water Utility Authority warns that freezing temperatures can lead to frozen pipes, potentially causing extensive and costly water damage. To prevent this, the Water Utility Authority recommends turning off sprinklers and covering outdoor spouts before the freeze hits on Wednesday.

NMGC also encourages residents to schedule a checkup for their furnace or heating system. “A furnace tune-up is important for safety. Any fuel-burning appliance that isn’t functioning properly can lead to carbon monoxide buildup,” Korte added. For those needing assistance with heating system maintenance, NMGC offers resources available on their website.

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