Heavy rains leave Anthony apartment complex flooded

ANTHONY, New Mexico -- After dealing with heavy rains throughout the week, an Anthony apartment complex has had one of its main parking lots underwater since Thursday.

Without proper equipment to help drain the water within the complex, water began to invade residents' apartments at the Franklin Vista Apartments.

"There's black water coming out from the drain, so we had to go in there and throw it out and clean it out. So we were there all night," said Jose Garcia.

Without the city's help, residents were left scrambling to help prevent further damage.

"Because it's private property, city officials can not come in, unless it's an emergency or stuff of that nature," said Garcia.

That's when Garcia took matters into his own hands to help family members and other residents. After making numerous phone calls, he received some fortunate news from a city council trustee.

"Today he contacted me, and he told me that Anthony Water has the water pump. They're willing to lend it to the apartment complex, so that their maintenance could do the actual work," said Garcia.

Though it is only a temporary fix, many were relieved that help was offered to help control the situation for the time being.

"Because it's gonna keep raining, whether it is tomorrow or a month from now or… you know, these things have to get fixed," said Garcia.

ABC-7 made multiple attempts to contact the apartment complex management, but did not hear back.