This storm crossed our country from New England to New Mexico, like a sash of ice,
and left a peck of mischief everywhere it went. In central NM, the Rio Grande valley usually
escapes severe winter cold, but this entire morning was in sub-zero territory. Inside was
warm enough, but the gas company issued warning that gas was being supplied at full
capacity and possibly could fail. I don't think it ever did.
     What affected me the most was water, frozen at the meter, so not a drop was available for
cooking or to drink. Fortunately the meter thawed about 2:00 this afternoon, making personal
hygiene feasible once again. I've stored a supply in gallon bottles in case tonight's an encore.
     Now and then, before I learned to insulate them, I've had exposed pipes freeze and burst,
but having the meter freeze is a new experience. I do not recommend it.
Seán

     My most recent information is that 28,000 people in NM remain without gas for heating. Fortunately, warmer weather is returning, but nights and mornings are still freezing. I've heard of no fatalities of humans.
Seán