As a member and organizer of the newly established American Legion Post 16, I have been directed to employ the "Buddy Check" system enacted by legion commander Bill Oxford for local legion members. This system revolves mainly on helping members needing help with the Covid crisis but also extends to potential natural disasters of all kinds. As a member of Taos ARC, I feel it's my responsibility to advise all Taos ARC members of any potential warnings or advisements that I become aware of.
First of all, there is a major weather system that is affecting the United States at this very moment. Currently, it is hitting the north central United States, but is slowly moving southward. Eventually by next week, almost the entire country will be experiencing unseasonable and extreme cold temperatures along with heavy snowfall in many areas. Many southern states not used to getting snow may see record snow accumulations. The good news is that Taos is on the fringe according to forecasts, but we can't take too much comfort in that. The primary concern is that the burden on heating resources caused by people all over the country trying to keep warm could cause a collapse of utility companies, like the one that happened in Taos around ten years ago when we lost natural gas for several days.
It is advised to prepare for alternative forms of heat such as portable electric heaters, wood burning stoves, etc. Do not start fires in ornamental kiva fireplaces, as that was the number one call-out for our fire department ten years ago. If in doubt about a heating source, call the fire department. Other utilities could be at risk as well. Think about electricity loss, internet loss, phone loss, etc. Non-perishable foods should be on hand as well as potable water stores.
We are also coming into the time of year where we begin to replenish a very important antioxidant that is supplied by exposure to sunlight that has been diminished over the winter months. Many studies have also shown this nutrient to amplify the bodies immune system to fight Covid. It's called vitamin D3. The lack of sunlight in so much of the nation over the next week could put people at risk for Covid. As a health coach, I advise taking natural nutrient supplements including Vitamin D3, K2, C (preferably whole food C), minerals zinc, and selenium, and plant pigment quercetin for immune defense. Don't get the stuff from Wally. Go to Cid's or Taos Herb for the good stuff. They can also help you with dosages and any other questions you might have.
If anyone experiences difficulty if Taos experiences a problem, I am the point of contact for American Legion help. I am including a link to track weather weather systems. On the right column, you can select various activities and the bar at the bottom is a timeline forecast. Feel free to contact me if you have additional questions or need assistance of any kind. Due to Covid, Post 16 is not fully organized, but local members can still help as well as volunteers from other established posts. We hope and pray for the best, but prepare for the worst.
Go to: windy.com
G. Wayne Rivali W5GWR wrivali@yahoo.com