Residents of northern and southern New Mexico, particularly those near burn scar zones, should be on high alert this afternoon as storms are expected to bring heavy rain to already vulnerable areas. The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a Flood Watch, warning of flash flooding in regions including Ruidoso and the Hermits Peak Calf Canyon burn scar.
Flood Watch Issued for New Mexico
The Flood Watch remains in effect from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. MDT Tuesday for the Southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains, South Central Mountains, East Slopes, and Northeast Highlands. Storms are expected to bring rainfall rates of up to 0.75 inches per hour in some areas, exacerbating runoff concerns and increasing the risk of flash flooding.
Areas downstream of the 2022 Hermits Peak Calf Canyon burn scar and the more recent South Fork Fire scar near Ruidoso are particularly vulnerable. The unstable soil in these regions makes flash flooding more likely, and rivers and streams are expected to rise rapidly. Low-water crossings and rural roads may become impassable, and riverbanks could give way with little warning.
Safety Tips for Residents
Residents and travelers are urged to take several precautions to stay safe during this hazardous weather event:
- Avoid creek beds and unstable slopes: These areas are highly susceptible to flash floods.
- Keep cell phones charged: Ensure you have backup power in case of outages.
- Have an evacuation plan: Be prepared to leave if conditions worsen and Flash Flood Warnings are issued.
- Stay informed: Pay attention to weather updates and warnings, as storms will build over higher elevations and drift southeast through the afternoon.
What to Expect
The storms will primarily affect areas in and around burn scar zones, where the ground’s instability increases the likelihood of flooding. This includes rivers and streams that will rise rapidly, posing serious risks to nearby communities. Low-water crossings, rural roads, and riverbanks may become dangerous or impassable.
What to Do if Flash Flood Warnings Are Issued
If Flash Flood Warnings are issued, seek higher ground immediately and avoid traveling through flooded areas. Emergency officials emphasize that these storms can intensify quickly, so it’s crucial to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel during this time.
