ROSWELL, NEW MEXICO — Recent record rainfall has led to significant flooding in the Roswell area, prompting local authorities to carry out rescue operations for numerous individuals trapped by rising waters. Among those affected was a sheriff who had to seek refuge on the roof of his vehicle amidst the flood. Tragically, the flooding has claimed at least two lives.
Officials from the New Mexico National Guard reported that since Saturday, a total of 309 individuals have been rescued, with 38 requiring hospitalization due to injuries that have not been specified. New Mexico State Police confirmed the fatalities related to the intense flash floods, although details regarding the victims or the events surrounding their deaths have yet to be disclosed.
Reports from a local television station revealed that Chaves County Sheriff Mike Herrington was seen atop his vehicle, surrounded by water. He recounted that when floodwaters rose high enough to reach the windows of his vehicle and others in the vicinity, he had no option but to climb to the roof to avoid being overwhelmed.
City officials in Roswell indicated that while water levels have receded in various parts of the city, the downtown area remains severely affected. They announced that all major routes leading into and out of the city were closed as of Sunday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, Roswell experienced a staggering 5.78 inches (approximately 14.7 centimeters) of rain on Saturday, surpassing the previous daily record of 5.65 inches (about 14.6 centimeters) that had stood since November 1, 1901.
Meteorological forecasts suggest that additional rainfall and the potential for flash floods are still a possibility. As the water encroached upon several homes and businesses that evening, local authorities reported the dramatic rescue of seven individuals who had been swept away in a vehicle. Multiple cars were also carried off into a nearby river channel.
In response to the emergency, authorities established a shelter at the Eastern New Mexico state fairgrounds for residents of Roswell who were displaced by the flooding.
Maj. Gen. Miguel Aguilar, the adjutant general of the New Mexico National Guard, stated, “We’ve worked all night and will continue collaborating with swift water rescue teams and other partner agencies to ensure the safety of our fellow residents.”
Guard officials announced their commitment to supporting Roswell for as long as the situation necessitates, with 57 guardsmen actively deployed in the area. They also highlighted the presence of specialized tactical vehicles at the scene that can navigate through conditions with up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) of water.