Mora, N.M. – A flash flood warning is in effect this afternoon across northwestern Mora County, where heavy rainfall is triggering dangerous conditions near the Hermits Peak Calf Canyon burn scar.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, radar detected thunderstorms producing up to an inch of rain by 2:37 p.m. Wednesday, with flash flooding already occurring or expected to begin shortly. The warning remains active until 5:30 p.m. MDT.
The storm system is pushing debris flows into tributaries of the Mora River, including Coyote Creek, Sierra Ditch, Canoncito Creek, Encinal Creek, and Rio La Casa. Floodwaters may carry rock, mud, and vegetation, creating life-threatening hazards downstream.
Communities most at risk include Mora, Holman, Chacon, Cleveland, El Turquillo, Guadalupita, and Luceros. Roads, driveways, and bridges could be washed out quickly, with water moving debris into low-lying areas.
Officials urge residents to avoid driving across flooded roads, move immediately to higher ground, and prepare for sudden evacuation orders. Additional warnings may be issued if storms persist into the evening.
