The New Mexico National Guard is actively conducting search and rescue operations in Roswell following record rainfall that caused significant flooding.
As of Sunday, state police confirmed the deaths of at least two people due to flash flooding, although details about the victims and the circumstances of their deaths have yet to be released. Guard officials reported that more than 300 people have been rescued since the flooding began on Saturday, with 38 individuals transported to hospitals for treatment of undisclosed injuries.
The National Weather Service recorded 5.78 inches (about 14.7 cm) of rainfall in Roswell on Saturday, surpassing the city's previous daily rainfall record of 5.65 inches (about 14.6 cm), which was set on November 1, 1901.
As homes and businesses were inundated, authorities reported multiple rescues, including seven people who were saved after their vehicle was swept away by floodwaters. The Chaves County sheriff was also forced to evacuate onto the roof of his vehicle after being stranded in rising water.
Rescue efforts continued throughout Sunday, with meteorologists warning of more potential rain and flash floods. "We’ve worked all night and continue to work with swift water rescue teams and partner agencies to help our fellow citizens get to safety,” said Major General Miguel Aguilar, adjutant general of the New Mexico National Guard.
Officials stated that 57 guard members are on the ground with tactical vehicles capable of navigating water levels up to four feet (1.2 meters). They have vowed to remain in Roswell for as long as necessary to assist with the ongoing rescue operations.
Experts link the increasing frequency of extreme rainfall and catastrophic flooding to the global climate crisis, which is exacerbated by the burning of fossil fuels.
Roswell, known for its association with UFO conspiracy theories, now faces a different crisis, battling the impact of record-breaking floods.
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