New Mexico officials warn of severe weather, flooding

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Emergency management officials have issued a severe weather warning as forecasters report widespread rain across western New Mexico and parts of the Rio Grande Valley. Wind gusts of about 45 mph were reported as rain moved into the Albuquerque area on Wednesday afternoon. Authorities warned people to away from arroyos, drainage channels and flooded low water crossings. The forecast called for scattered to numerous thunderstorms in the afternoons and evenings through Saturday. State officials described this year’s monsoon as active, noting that 10 disaster declarations have been issued in the past three months due to flooding.