San Juan County Fire & Rescue officials raised alarms on Sunday that the upcoming end of daylight saving time could complicate flood‑relief efforts across the region. With clocks set to fall back, darkness will arrive earlier, reducing visibility for crews working on the rivers that have surged to historic levels.
Visibility concerns for overnight rescues
“That’s one thing that we’re concerned about is what time change, it’s getting dark so early and we can’t get good eyes on certain parts of the river in the dark,” said Devin Neely, spokesperson for San Juan County Fire & Rescue. “So the overnight hours are going to be crucial to make sure that we keep people safe.”
The statement came as heavy rains continue to batter the San Juan River basin, prompting local authorities to prepare for a second wave of flooding within the next two weeks. While no active rescues were underway at the time of reporting, officials emphasized that the reduced daylight could hinder efforts to locate and extract stranded residents.
Precautionary steps for residents
County officials have urged residents living near rivers and low‑lying areas to move to higher ground and, if necessary, evacuate their homes. “We want everyone to be proactive and not wait until the water rises,” Neely added. The advice aligns with broader regional preparations in both northwest New Mexico and southwest Colorado, where emergency managers are monitoring river gauges and weather forecasts closely.
Policy backdrop: DST debate in Washington
The timing of these concerns coincides with a renewed debate in the U.S. Senate over making daylight saving time permanent. President Trump has publicly advocated for ending the biannual clock change, arguing that a consistent schedule would benefit families and reduce confusion for businesses and emergency services alike. However, many senators remain skeptical, citing potential drawbacks for morning commuters and concerns about darker mornings during winter months.
While the Senate discussion continues, local officials like those in San Juan County must contend with the immediate practical impacts of the clock shift on public safety. Their focus remains on ensuring that first responders have the necessary resources and clear guidance to operate safely after dark.
Looking ahead
Emergency management teams are coordinating with state agencies to secure additional lighting equipment and night‑vision tools should the need arise. Community volunteers are also being briefed on how to assist neighbors, especially the elderly and those with limited mobility, during any potential evacuations.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets, county alert systems, and the San Juan County Emergency Management website. By acting early and following official guidance, families can help protect themselves and support the brave men and women on the front lines of flood response.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
