• Over 300 people rescued since flooding began on October 19.
• Governor signs emergency declaration, releasing $1 million for relief.
• State and local agencies mobilized to support Chaves County.

October 22, 2024 — Roswell and surrounding areas in Chaves County are grappling with severe flooding after torrential rains began on October 19. First responders have rescued more than 300 people affected by the rising waters, which have inundated homes and roads.

The disaster follows fire and monsoon flooding that affected the area in June.

State of Emergency Declared.

On Monday, October 21, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed an emergency declaration for Chaves County to expedite relief efforts. The declaration unlocks $1 million in state funding to bolster flooding relief initiatives in and around Roswell.

“My declaration of a state of emergency for Chaves County will help support local recovery efforts in the aftermath of historic and severe flooding in and around Roswell,” said Governor Lujan Grisham. “I’m grateful for the swift actions taken by local authorities and our state departments to help communities in need. My administration is on the ground assisting and will continue to provide robust support for relief efforts.”

Allocation of Emergency Funds.

The governor issued two executive orders to direct the emergency funds:

• Executive Order 155 directs the New Mexico Department of Finance Administration to allocate $750,000 to the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for emergency response efforts.
• Executive Order 156 authorizes the release of $250,000 to the New Mexico National Guard to support disaster relief initiatives.

Ongoing Support and Recovery.

Governor Lujan Grisham traveled to Roswell on Monday to assess the situation firsthand and will receive updates from state and local officials throughout the day. State agencies work closely with local authorities to assist affected residents, coordinate rescue operations, and begin recovery.

Residents are urged to stay informed through official channels and to heed safety warnings as the situation develops.

Video (image above is a screenshot from the video):

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