President Joe Biden has officially declared a major disaster in the southeastern region of New Mexico, following significant flooding that resulted in the loss of two lives and necessitated the rescue of over 300 individuals last month.

This declaration, made on a recent Friday, provides access to federal funding for residents in Chaves County. On October 19, the area experienced an unprecedented rainfall of 5.78 inches (or approximately 14.7 centimeters), surpassing the previous daily record set in Roswell of 5.65 inches (about 14.6 centimeters) back in November 1901.

Mayor Tim Jennings described the events as indicative of “a 500-year flood,” estimating the resulting damages could reach as high as $500 million.

City officials reported that the Roswell Museum incurred at least $12 million worth of water damage, prompting some artwork to be shipped out of state for necessary repairs.

Officials from the Biden administration noted that available federal assistance may include grants for temporary accommodations and home repairs, as well as low-interest loans designed to help cover uninsured property losses, alongside additional programs aimed at supporting both individuals and local business owners in the recovery process.