Intense rainfall and severe flash flooding in Roswell, New Mexico, have claimed the lives of at least two people, with hundreds more rescued in a large-scale emergency response. Heavy rains on Saturday night triggered a Flash Flood Emergency for the region, forcing city officials to call in the National Guard to assist in ongoing rescue efforts. According to local authorities, around 300 people were rescued from floodwaters as search and rescue operations extended into Sunday.
The National Weather Service issued a rare “Particularly Dangerous Situation” alert, a public warning that signals imminent and life-threatening flash flooding, especially in densely populated areas. Parts of New Mexico, including Roswell, were hit with between four and nine inches of rainfall within hours, leading to widespread flooding that overwhelmed the city’s infrastructure.
Residents reported water quickly rising in streets, homes, and businesses, trapping many in their vehicles or inside buildings. Emergency crews, including local police and fire departments, coordinated with state police and the National Guard to deploy boats, high-clearance vehicles, and helicopters in rescue operations. By Sunday afternoon, rescue teams were still combing flooded areas to ensure that no one was left stranded.
The two fatalities occurred when floodwaters rapidly engulfed homes and vehicles. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims, but they confirmed that both individuals were found in areas that had been hit hardest by the flooding.
Local shelters have been set up for displaced residents, and emergency services are working to provide food, water, and other essentials to those affected. Power outages and road closures continue to impact several parts of the city, with many residents facing damage to their homes and property.
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has expressed her condolences to the families of the victims and praised the efforts of emergency responders. “This is an unimaginable tragedy for the Roswell community,” the governor said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives, and we are grateful to the National Guard, state police, and local first responders for their tireless work in rescuing so many.”
With more rain expected in the coming days, officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and heed evacuation orders if necessary. The National Weather Service has extended flash flood warnings for parts of New Mexico as the state faces the potential for additional heavy rainfall.
As the waters begin to recede, city officials are assessing the full extent of the damage. The recovery process is expected to be long and challenging, with infrastructure repairs, clean-up efforts, and support for affected families likely to continue for weeks.
