Residents in several communities in southern New Mexico were ordered to evacuate Tuesday after officials warned that McLeod Dam was in “imminent failure” as heavy rain caused flooding across the area.
Evacuation orders were issued for Rincon, Salem, Garfield and Hatch, with Hatch now in “GO” mode and residents told to leave immediately.
The National Weather Service issued a flash flood emergency for northwestern Doña Ana County and urged people in affected areas to seek higher ground.
Officials also advised residents to take essential medications and other necessary items, bring their pets with them, and avoid flooded roads and low-water crossings.
Flooding has been reported across the area, with roads in and around Salem, Garfield and Hatch becoming flooded or impassable. Several roads were closed because of flooding and debris, including portions of NM 187, U.S. 180, NM 174 and NM 27.
Two shelters were opened for residents who evacuated, including the Radium Springs Community Center and the Doña Ana Community Resource Center.
Garfield Elementary School students were also transported to Hatch Valley High School, where parents could pick them up.