Albuquerque Declared Disaster After Winter Storm

Albuquerque Mayor Richard Berry has declared the winter storm that hit New Mexico’s largest city early in February as a natural disaster.

City Emergency Management Director Sal Baragiola says it’s the first step the city can take to possibly recover its losses.

Berry made the declaration after the Albuquerque City Council unanimously approved a resolution Wednesday night.

The resolution allows the mayor to request any aid that might be available from state and federal agencies.

The winter storm that hit Feb. 1 left broken pipes and interrupted natural gas service to some areas.

Albuquerque officials say the city incurred more than $1 million in overtime costs and damage to buildings.