Flash flooding in New Mexico triggers “particularly dangerous situation” warning

Roswell, New Mexico, experienced a “flash flood emergency” overnight Saturday, the National Weather Service reported – the highest level of flash flood warning.

Between 4 and 9 inches of rain fell in parts of the state, prompting the NWS to declare a “particularly hazardous situation” – a warning issued when a flash flood emergency occurs in an area with a large population.

The NWS issued a flood warning for east-central, northeast and southeast New Mexico into the early hours of Monday. A flash flood warning remains in effect for eastern New Mexico through Sunday night.

Further rainfall is expected through Sunday, falling on ground already saturated from Saturday's downpours, increasing the risk of further flash flooding.

Roswell was inundated with a record 5.78 inches of precipitation per day – more than the previous record of 5.65 inches set on November 1, 1901.

Emergency services reported that numerous rescue operations were underway throughout the Roswell area, with water entering homes and shutting down numerous roads.

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

The sheriff's office later released videos of people being rushed to safety by flooding and roads cut off by rising water.

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

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.