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HomeWeatherRecord-Breaking Rainfall Triggers Roswell Flash Flood 2024: Homes Submerged and Roads Closed

Record-Breaking Rainfall Triggers Roswell Flash Flood 2024: Homes Submerged and Roads Closed

Roswell, New Mexico, is facing a severe crisis as the Roswell Flash Flood 2024 sweeps through the city, bringing record-breaking rainfall and widespread damage. On Saturday evening, nearly 6 inches of rain fell, setting a new rainfall record, breaking one that had stood since 1901. This historic storm prompted authorities to declare a flash flood emergency, leaving homes underwater, roads impassable, and residents stranded.

Roswell Flash Flood 2024
This graphic shows flood alerts in New Mexico.
(FOX Weather)

Homes Submerged as Flash Flood Devastates Roswell

The Roswell Flash Flood left many residents trapped in their homes as floodwaters rose rapidly. One resident, Michelle Alexander, shared devastating footage showing her house filled with water. “I have lost everything I own,” she wrote on social media, describing the shock of witnessing her home submerged.

As emergency responders worked tirelessly to rescue those affected, Roswell residents were advised to stay indoors. Authorities warned that flooding conditions could worsen with additional storms forecasted in the coming days.

Dangerous Road Conditions Amid Roswell Flash Flood

The flash flood caused major road closures across Roswell, with New Mexico State Police confirming that all roads leading in and out of the city were shut down due to rising water levels. Vehicles were seen driving through downtown with water up to their tires, and several were swept away by powerful currents. Chaves County Undersheriff Charles Yslas described the dangerous conditions as extremely low visibility, high winds, and even hail exacerbated the situation. Parts of Highways 380 and 285 were also closed due to hazardous conditions.

Emergency responders were also concerned for two school buses returning to Roswell from Santa Fe, urging them to stay put until the storm passed, as traveling on flooded roads posed severe risks.

Sheriff Trapped by Floodwaters

Even law enforcement wasn’t spared from the Roswell Flash Flood. Chaves County Sheriff Mike Herrington was caught off guard by rising waters and stranded on the roof of his police truck. In a video posted on Facebook, the sheriff warned residents not to venture out, showing several vehicles surrounded by water. “I am completely surrounded by water,” Herrington said, emphasizing the urgent need for caution.

Record-Breaking Rain and Ongoing Flood Risks

The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed that Roswell received 5.78 inches of rain on Saturday, breaking the city’s previous record of 5.65 inches set in 1901. Some parts of Chaves County saw up to 9 inches of rain, pushing the region into a state of emergency. Although the flash flood warnings have now expired, flood alerts remain in effect, and additional thunderstorms are expected. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has placed parts of eastern New Mexico at a Level 2 risk for severe weather, including torrential rain, hail, damaging winds, and potential tornadoes.

Community Response and Recovery

As the Roswell Flash Flood leaves behind extensive damage, residents are beginning to assess the destruction. Many homes have been flooded, and emergency teams continue to respond to calls for assistance. Local authorities are urging everyone to stay informed and avoid unnecessary travel as conditions remain dangerous. Recovery efforts will be critical in the coming days, as Roswell deals with the aftermath of one of the most significant flooding events in its history.

This developing story underscores the unpredictable nature of severe weather and the urgent need for preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

Source : foxweather

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