ROSWELL, NM — Record-breaking rainfall has led to severe flooding in and around Roswell, New Mexico, resulting in the deaths of two people and prompting large-scale rescue efforts. The New Mexico National Guard reported that 309 individuals had been rescued since the flooding began on Saturday, with 38 of them taken to hospitals for medical treatment.
The flash flooding, which has impacted large portions of the city, prompted emergency responders to work around the clock to assist stranded residents. New Mexico State Police confirmed that two people lost their lives due to the flash flood, though details about the victims or the exact circumstances of their deaths have not yet been made public.
City officials reported that while water levels had receded in many areas by Sunday, the downtown region of Roswell remained heavily affected. Authorities also announced that all roads leading into and out of the city were closed on Sunday due to the flooding, with transportation routes severely impacted.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham issued a statement on Sunday, urging residents to prioritize their safety and avoid flood-prone areas. “We are doing everything in our power to respond to this emergency,” Grisham said, “and I want to thank all the first responders and the National Guard for their tireless efforts to rescue and assist residents.”
Flooding in New Mexico is relatively rare, but this event follows an extended period of rainfall, overwhelming the region’s drainage systems and causing rivers and streams to overflow. In Roswell, flash floods inundated homes, businesses, and roadways, creating dangerous conditions for residents.
Rescue operations, coordinated by the New Mexico National Guard, included the use of helicopters and high-water vehicles to reach individuals trapped by rising floodwaters. Many residents were stranded in homes and cars as the floodwaters surged through the city, and first responders worked to evacuate those in immediate danger.
“We are grateful for the efforts of our emergency personnel,” said Roswell Mayor Timothy Jennings. “But we are still urging caution, as floodwaters remain high in parts of the city, especially downtown.”
Authorities have set up emergency shelters for displaced residents as they begin to assess the damage caused by the floods. With road closures still in effect, officials are asking the public to stay off the streets and avoid non-essential travel.
The National Weather Service has lifted the flood warning for much of Roswell, but recovery efforts are expected to take days, if not weeks. State and local officials are coordinating with federal emergency agencies to provide additional resources and support for those affected by the disaster.
Roswell remains under a state of emergency as crews continue rescue and recovery efforts in the wake of the unprecedented flooding.
