Historic flooding in Roswell, New Mexico prompts major disaster declaration, leaving residents grappling with unprecedented damage and loss.
At a Glance
- President Biden declares major disaster area in southeast New Mexico due to historic flooding
- Flooding resulted in two deaths and over 300 rescues
- Roswell experienced 5.78 inches of rain on October 19, breaking a 123-year-old record
- Mayor Tim Jennings described the event as a “500-year flood” with estimated damages up to $500 million
- Federal funding now available to residents in Chaves County for recovery efforts
Unprecedented Flooding Strikes Roswell
In a rare meteorological event, Roswell, New Mexico experienced severe flooding in October 2024, leading to President Joe Biden’s declaration of a major disaster for the area. The unprecedented rainfall, measuring 5.78 inches in just one day, shattered a previous record from 1901 and caused deadly floods that resulted in the loss of two lives and required emergency evacuations of over 300 people.
Just look at the scale of the damage being done there:
The calamity was particularly severe in Chaves County, qualifying it for much-needed federal disaster aid. The financial implications were enormous, with damages estimated at a staggering $500 million. Roswell Mayor Tim Jennings underscored the exceptional nature of the event, referring to it as a “500-year” flood.
In response to the disaster, President Biden’s declaration has made federal funding available to affected residents in Chaves County. This assistance includes grants for temporary housing, home repairs, low-cost loans for uninsured property losses, and other recovery programs for individuals and businesses.
“The impacts of this historic flooding have been devastating for this community, and I am grateful to the Biden-Harris administration for acting quickly to provide support,” Gov. Lujan Grisham said.
Governor Lujan Grisham expressed gratitude for the federal support and emphasized the need for collaborative recovery efforts. Residents affected by the flooding will soon be able to apply for FEMA assistance through various channels, including the FEMA website, phone hotline, or mobile app.
While local and federal officials tally the damage from deadly flooding in Roswell, the governor and the state's Congressional delegation are urging President Joe Biden to declare a major disaster. https://t.co/Dgbb1MiwkJ
— Source New Mexico (@source_nm) October 29, 2024
The flooding’s impact extended beyond residential areas, causing significant damage to local institutions. The Roswell Museum, a cultural cornerstone of the community, suffered at least $12 million in water damage. The extent of the destruction necessitated sending artwork out of state for repairs, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of this natural disaster.
As the community begins the long process of recovery, the focus remains on rebuilding and restoring what was lost. The federal assistance will play a crucial role in this effort, providing much-needed resources to those affected by this historic flooding event.
Let’s just hope local residents get more support from the federal government than Hurricane Helene victims did…
