Severe flooding impacts New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah

Heavy rainfall has triggered significant flooding across the Southwestern United States, causing rivers to overflow and roads to close. In Farmington, New Mexico, approximately 600 households along the San Juan River have been issued evacuation orders, with Navajo Nation residents also warned of rising water levels.

In southern Colorado, flooding has exceeded previous records, with the San Juan River surpassing its 100-year flood level by approximately one meter. Colorado Governor Jared Polis has declared a state of emergency in 11 counties. Rescue operations involving boats, helicopters, and amphibious vehicles have been deployed to assist residents trapped in homes or on rooftops. Notably, the Colorado National Guard rescued two individuals and three dogs from a partially submerged caravan.

In Utah, rising river and stream levels have caused damage due to flooding and mud accumulation. Despite temporary pauses in precipitation, officials report that water levels in several rivers continue to rise.