Weather
New Mexico Flood Alert Oct. 23: Catastrophic River Flooding
Farmington, NM – Catastrophic flooding is underway along the San Juan River in northwestern New Mexico on Friday, October 23, with dangerously high water levels threatening communities from Farmington
By Nora Whitfield · 2026-10-23T21:33:13.027Z
Farmington, NM – Catastrophic flooding is underway along the San Juan River in northwestern New Mexico on Friday, October 23, with dangerously high water levels threatening communities from Farmington through Shiprock as additional severe thunderstorms approach the state this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service NWS in Albuquerque, the San Juan River reached 14.07 feet at Farmington late Friday morning, exceeding the previous record stage of 12.3 feet. At Shiprock, the river reached 16.7 feet Friday afternoon, with forecasts indicating a possible crest near 23.47 feet.
Dangerous River Flooding Continues
The NWS described the flooding as catastrophic and urged residents near the affected river corridor to follow directions from local and state emergency officials.
At Farmington, major flood stage begins at 12 feet. At Shiprock, major flood stage begins at 20.5 feet, meaning the forecast crest would exceed that threshold by nearly 3 feet.
Flooding could threaten low lying properties, river crossings and roads near the water. Residents should avoid flooded areas and never attempt to drive through moving water.
Severe Storms Threaten More Communities Saturday
Meanwhile, central New Mexico faces a Level 2 of 5 slight risk of severe thunderstorms Saturday, October 24.
The greatest threat extends from the middle Rio Grande Valley southeast through Ruidoso toward Roswell, where damaging winds and large hail are possible during the afternoon and evening.
Flash flooding is another concern, with thunderstorms potentially producing rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour.
Flood watches also cover portions of west central and northwestern New Mexico and the south central mountains.
By Sunday, October 25, severe storm risks shift toward south central, east central and southeastern New Mexico, including Clovis, Roswell and Ruidoso.
Forecasters expect conditions to gradually improve Monday.
Residents should monitor updated warnings at weather.gov/abq and follow emergency instructions.