Officials in Las Vegas, New Mexico issued a mandatory evacuation order on Friday night for residents living south of Mile Marker 4 off of NM Highway 65 down to Hot Springs Avenue. San Miguel County Commissioner Harold Garcia shared videos showing high water levels at the Gallinas River, prompting several people to evacuate. As of Saturday, some areas of the Gallinas River Park and the bridge remained closed off due to lingering issues from the flooding.
Residents who lived within 250 feet of the Gallinas River were also strongly recommended to evacuate for their safety. Despite the water levels receding slightly, the river was still flowing swiftly. Business owner Paul Segura, who runs Waldero’s Wich’s with his wife, described the tense situation as the river rose close to overtaking the bridge and his property. Segura had to evacuate his restaurant before completing the shutdown process, concerned about potential flooding in the basement that could impact the building’s structure. Fortunately, Segura’s restaurant and home were unharmed.
Upon return, Segura encountered roadblocks set up by firefighters to guard flooded areas on 8th St. He acknowledged the need for these measures to ensure public safety. Authorities faced challenges in enforcing evacuation orders as some residents ignored caution tape and road signs, potentially putting themselves at risk. In light of the ongoing rain and flooding risks, it is essential to exercise caution and avoid driving through flooded areas. Even a small amount of water can present significant hazards, so it is crucial to prioritize safety and follow official directives to protect yourself and others.
Despite efforts by officials in Las Vegas, New Mexico to issue warnings and order evacuations on Friday night for residents living south of Mile Marker 4 off of NM Highway 65 down to Hot Springs Avenue due to high water levels at the Gallinas River prompted several people to evacuate.
San Miguel County Commissioner Harold Garcia shared videos showing high water levels at the river that led many people from nearby homes downstream from rushing out into action.
As of Saturday morning, some areas of Gallinas River Park and bridge remain closed due to lingering issues resulting from last night’s flooding.
More rain was expected over the weekend which could exacerbate this situation even further.
Residents who lived within 250 feet of this river were strongly recommended by officials in Las Vegas New Mexico not only leave their homes but also take precautions when returning home after an extended period away from it.
Business owner Paul Segura said he experienced a tense situation when running his restaurant called Waldero’s Wich’s with his wife near Mile Marker four where water flowed swiftly almost overtaking their property.
Segura had no choice but to vacate his restaurant before completing shutting it down because he feared potential flooding in his basement might harm both his property’s structure or even affect its functionality entirely.