Recent heavy rain and flash flood warnings in New Mexico have led to mandatory evacuations being ordered for parts of Las Vegas. The National Weather Service declared a flash flood emergency on Friday night, affecting areas including Las Vegas and nearby communities near Albuquerque.
By late Friday, up to 2 inches (5 centimeters) of rainfall had already been recorded, with an additional 1.5 inches (3.8 centimeters) expected overnight. This significant rainfall resulted in flash flooding, leading to multiple road closures on the north and west sides of Las Vegas.
The Las Vegas municipal government took swift action by announcing mandatory evacuations for certain parts of the city. Shelters were promptly set up to accommodate displaced residents, urging them to prepare for overnight stays. The city government also dispelled online rumors about water dams breaking, reassuring the public that the dams are currently intact.
Residents were advised to limit non-essential water use to help manage the situation effectively. Meanwhile, devastating wildfires in New Mexico this week claimed the lives of at least two individuals and forced thousands to flee from the flames. The South Fork and Salt fires in south-central New Mexico caused extensive damage, destroying or damaging an estimated 1,400 structures.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham are scheduled to tour the disaster area on Saturday to assess the impact of the wildfires and provide necessary support to the affected communities.
