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Flash flooding in New Mexico prompts ‘extremely dangerous situation’ warning
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Flash flooding in New Mexico prompts ‘extremely dangerous situation’ warning

Roswell, New Mexico, experienced a “Flash Flood Emergency” overnight Saturday, the National Weather Service reported — the highest level of flash flood warnings.

Parts of the state saw between 4 and 10 inches of rain, prompting the NWS to issue an “extremely hazardous situation” warning — an alert issued when a flash flood occurs in an area with a significant population density .

The NWS has issued a flood warning for eastern, northeastern and southeastern New Mexico through the early hours of Monday. A flash flood warning remains in effect for eastern New Mexico through Sunday night.

Additional rain is expected through Sunday, falling on ground already saturated from Saturday’s rain showers, raising the risk of further flash flooding.

This graph from ABC News shows an increased risk of flooding caused by heavy rain in eastern New Mexico on October 20, 2024.

ABC News

Roswell was inundated with a record daily rainfall of 17.78 inches – higher than the previous record set on November 1, 1901 of 17.65 inches.

Emergency crews reported numerous rescue efforts were underway in the Roswell area, with water entering homes and cutting off numerous roads.

The Chaves County Sheriff’s Office shared an emergency alert on its Facebook page warning of “an extremely dangerous and life-threatening situation.”

The Sheriff’s Office later shared videos of people being pushed to safety by flooding and of roads being closed by rising waters.

The Spring River in the Cahoon area rose rapidly, stranding several vehicles under bridges along the river.

This is a development story. Check back later for updates.