Albuquerque, N.M. – Heavy rain and flash flooding could cause dangerous travel and rising water across central and eastern New Mexico Saturday, as the National Weather Service expanded a Flood Watch covering multiple counties.
According to the Weather Service in Albuquerque, the watch runs from noon through late Saturday night for Curry, Roosevelt, De Baca, and Chaves counties, along with eastern Lincoln County. A separate Flood Watch covers the South Central Mountains, including Ruidoso, where wildfire burn scars remain vulnerable to mudslides and debris flows.
Forecasters warned that storms may drop rainfall rates of more than three inches per hour in some areas. With soils already saturated from Friday’s storms, runoff could quickly overwhelm rivers, creeks, and low-lying streets. Poor drainage in urban areas may also see extensive flooding.
Drivers are urged to avoid crossing flooded roads, while residents near burn scars and arroyos should be prepared for sudden water rises. Officials recommend charging phones and keeping emergency kits ready in case flooding cuts off power or roads.
The flash flood threat is expected to last through late Saturday night, with more watches or warnings possible if storms redevelop into Sunday.
