Roswell, New Mexico, is reeling from unprecedented flooding after record-breaking rainfall submerged streets, homes, and businesses, leaving two people dead and prompting large-scale rescue operations. The New Mexico National Guard and other emergency responders have been working tirelessly to assist those stranded by the historic deluge, which began late Friday and intensified over the weekend.
The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that Roswell received 5.78 inches of rain on Saturday, shattering a 120-year-old daily rainfall record of 5.65 inches set in 1901. The storm, which marks the state’s first major fall weather event, brought between 4 to 8 inches of rain to the region, creating dangerous conditions throughout the city and its surrounding areas.
Meteorologist Carter Greulich described the situation as “an extremely unusual historic event” for Roswell, a city better known for its connection to the 1947 UFO incident. The heavy rainfall led to widespread flooding, with several areas still submerged and roads impassable.
Amid the chaos, two storm-related fatalities were confirmed by New Mexico State Police. While details of the victims’ identities and the circumstances of their deaths have not been disclosed, officials have expressed condolences and emphasized the severity of the situation.
The New Mexico National Guard has been leading the search and rescue mission, deploying nearly 60 members to assist those in need. Since the beginning of the storm, 309 people have been rescued, including 38 who were transported to local hospitals for further treatment. Many people were found stranded on rooftops, in flooded vehicles, and inside homes overwhelmed by the rapidly rising waters.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid traveling on flooded roads and to stay indoors if possible. In some areas, cars were seen submerged, with some vehicles swept away by strong currents. The City of Roswell has warned that debris on streets poses a risk, further complicating cleanup and recovery efforts.
“Our priority is to ensure the safety of our residents,” said a spokesperson from the Roswell city government. “We are grateful for the cooperation and teamwork of local, state, and federal agencies in this challenging time.”
A shelter has been set up at the Eastern New Mexico State Fairground to accommodate those displaced by the floods, and the city remains committed to providing resources for affected residents. Despite these efforts, the situation remains precarious, with more rain forecasted and smaller rivers and streams still struggling to handle the deluge.
The flooding has also disrupted travel and transportation in and out of the city. Roswell Air Center, an airport located about five miles from downtown, was forced to cancel all flights over the weekend. Officials plan to assess conditions to determine when flights can safely resume. Roads leading to and from the city were also closed as authorities worked to clear debris and ensure safe passage for emergency vehicles.
Local businesses and homes have been heavily impacted, with water seeping into buildings and causing significant damage. Residents described the flood as unlike anything they had seen before, noting that even those in less flood-prone areas found themselves dealing with waterlogged properties.
The storm’s aftermath has seen a unified effort from multiple agencies, including the Roswell Police and Fire Departments, Chaves County Sheriff’s Office, state police, and the New Mexico National Guard. Emergency responders have been praised for their swift and coordinated actions, which have likely prevented further loss of life.
Despite the challenging circumstances, the Roswell community has shown resilience, with neighbors helping each other navigate the floodwaters and local officials working around the clock to manage the crisis. While recovery efforts continue, officials have cautioned residents to stay alert as the weather could still bring more rain and potential flooding.
“This has been a historic event, and our hearts go out to everyone affected,” said Greulich. “We urge people to stay safe, avoid flooded roads, and remain prepared as the situation unfolds.”
The city has shifted its focus to recovery, but with water levels still high in some areas, the cleanup process is expected to take time. Debris clogging waterways has further complicated the issue, slowing down the recession of floodwaters. For now, authorities are advising residents to exercise caution and heed safety warnings as they navigate the aftermath of this devastating storm.
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