Weather Paralysis

Backyard at the hacienda

Because the Chihuahuan is a high desert (most of it above 4,000 feet), it's not unusual to see a snowfall or two during the colder months.  But yesterday's snow storm packed a tremendous wallop, temporarily paralyzing the region.  The morning temperature in Las Cruces, New Mexico was 5 degrees Farenheit (-15 Celsius).  For much of the morning I-10 was closed out of Las Cruces all the way to the state lines of Arizona and Texas.  Nevertheless, the trusty companion and I had to get out on the trail.  14 degrees F. when we started.

The Organ Mountains outside of Las Cruces, New Mexico

Low-hanging clouds

Peak peeking out

The 9100-foot Organ Mountains

Snow-covered Yucca

Snow on a Soaptree Yucca

Torrey Yuccas in snow

Snow-covered Tortugas (Tortoise) Mountain

Desert dog?

A beautiful Chihuahuan Desert snow

Prickly Pear Cactus on ice