When the San Juan River burst its banks on Friday night, the floodwaters quickly inundated homes and trailers in Bloomfield, forcing one family to seek refuge on the roof of their trailer. After more than 12 hours awaiting help, a state police helicopter finally rescued Aimee Goodday, her daughter, son‑in‑law and two grandsons.

Rapid rise of the river

The river, which runs just a quarter‑mile from Goodday’s home, began rising rapidly after heavy rains. “We lost everything, everything,” Goodday said, recalling the moment cold water surged into her trailer around midnight. “We were all freaked out, but someone had to be the adult and make a plan.”

Roof‑top shelter

With the water continuing to climb, Goodday moved her family onto the trailer’s roof. “The water was still rising, and I just felt helpless,” she explained. The family huddled together, trying to stay warm and keep the children calm as the flood surged around them.

Helicopter rescue

After a grueling 12‑hour wait, a state police helicopter arrived and lifted the family to safety. “I have my babies. Everything else is replaceable, but they are not,” Goodday said, expressing relief that her children were unharmed.

Ongoing community impact

The surrounding neighborhood remains flooded, and the San Juan River continues to flow through the area. The nearby Bloomfield Water Reclamation Plant is underwater and was shut down before the floodwaters reached it, prompting officials to urge residents to conserve water because untreated wastewater is now entering the river.

A representative from San Juan United Way, which is coordinating with emergency management, urged anyone in need of assistance to call 2‑1‑1. Many phone lines in Bloomfield and nearby Farmington are overwhelmed or non‑functional, making it difficult for residents to reach help.

What residents can do

Local officials are advising residents to seek assistance through the United Way hotline and to stay informed about road closures and water safety. Community volunteers are also organizing clean‑up efforts and distributing supplies to those whose homes were damaged.

The flood underscores the importance of robust emergency‑response plans and the need for continued investment in infrastructure to protect families from future disasters.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.