Southern NM Communities Hit By Downpours

DONA ANA COUNTY, NM – Several of Southern New Mexico’s smaller communities were hit hard by the flooding rains that swept through Tuesday afternoon.

The Dona Ana County Flood Commission reports that runoff into arroyos near Hatch appears to be abating, and water levels are dropping in the arroyos and in the area’s flood-control dams.

The situation could change quickly if heavy rains return to the area.

Las Cruces Police Department is reporting that school buses are being turned back from the East Mesa, Radium Springs and other rural communities.

Students who live in those areas are being returned to their schools in Las Cruces, parents can pick up their children at their respective schools.

Students are being urged to turn on their cell phones and contact their parents if they are affected.

The National Weather Service is reporting extremely powerful storm cells forming to the west of Doa Ana County and moving toward the City of Las Cruces and surrounding communities.

Storms associated with these cells will be capable of dumping up to two inches of rain per hour. Flood watches are now in effect over most areas of the county.

Low-lying residents are advised to seek higher ground immediately.