Roswell endures a historic flood with record rainfall, federal intervention, and a path to recovery stretching ahead.
At a Glance
- President Biden declared southeast New Mexico a major disaster area.
- Heavy rains caused two deaths and over 300 rescues in Roswell.
- Federal aid is now available for Chaves County residents.
- The flood inflicted around $500 million in damages.
New Mexico Faces Record Rainfall
Roswell, New Mexico, was hit with an unprecedented 5.78 inches of rain on October 19, 2024, marking the heaviest rainfall recorded in the city since 1901. The torrential downpour resulted in a 500-year flood, as stated by Mayor Tim Jennings. The severe weather event prompted a federal disaster declaration by President Joe Biden, enabling the mobilization of federal assistance to the affected region.
This catastrophic event led to the unfortunate loss of two lives and necessitated the rescue of over 300 individuals who found themselves in perilous situations. The flood waters caused widespread devastation, leaving homes and infrastructure severely damaged, and estimated the financial impact to be near $500 million.
Biden declares major disaster area in Chaves County due to historic flooding https://t.co/6rzG5bLEaY via @thenewmexican #flooding
— Santa Fe New Mexican (@thenewmexican) November 2, 2024
Recovery Efforts and Federal Assistance
The federal disaster declaration unlocks various forms of aid for residents of Chaves County. This assistance includes grants for temporary housing, home repairs, low-cost loans for uninsured property losses, and a range of recovery programs for both individuals and businesses. The affected residents can apply for this aid through multiple platforms to ensure that help is disseminated as efficiently as possible.
“Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App, according to the declaration from the White House.” – White House
Efforts are being made to coordinate recovery following the severe impacts of the flood. Governor Lujan Grisham expressed gratitude for the swift response by the Biden administration in addressing the needs of the New Mexico residents. The governor emphasized the necessity for a united front in assisting Chaves County to rebuild and recover from the tragic event.
Cultural and Economic Impacts
The flood’s aftermath left cultural institutions like the Roswell Museum bearing severe damage, with expenditures reaching at least $12 million for repairs and restoration. Water damage necessitated the relocation of valued artworks out of state for restoration. These damages reflect not only a financial toll but also constitute a significant cultural impact on the community that treasures its historic and cultural assets.
“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
As recovery efforts take precedence, the focus remains steadfast on ensuring that residents receive the support necessary to rebuild their lives and businesses. Continued federal support, combined with state-led initiatives, aims to restore normalcy and mitigate the effects of potential future natural disasters.
Sources
1. Biden declares major disaster area in southeast New Mexico due to historic flooding
2. Biden declares major disaster area in Chaves County due to historic flooding
