On Monday night, Hidalgo County Fire and Rescue was dispatched to the intersection of Highway 70 and Motel Drive in Lordsburg after a call reported a car floating beneath an underpass. The incident occurred as heavy rains caused water levels to rise rapidly, submerging the roadway.

Rescue operation

When first responders arrived, they found the vehicle surrounded by five to six feet of water. The water had filled the underpass, creating a dangerous situation for anyone inside the car. Police officers and a firefighter worked together to secure the scene and assess the condition of the trapped occupant.

Using specialized equipment, the rescue team was able to reach the vehicle and extract the individual safely. The person was pulled from the water and immediately evaluated by emergency medical personnel on site. No injuries were reported, and the occupant was released after a brief medical check.

Community response

Local officials praised the quick response of the fire and police departments, noting that the coordinated effort prevented a potentially tragic outcome. “Our teams are trained for these kinds of emergencies, and they acted swiftly to protect a life,” said a spokesperson for Hidalgo County Fire and Rescue.

Residents in the area were reminded to exercise caution while driving during heavy rain events. The underpass on Highway 70 remains closed until water levels recede and the roadway is deemed safe for traffic.

Safety reminders

Authorities continue to urge motorists to avoid flooded roads whenever possible. Driving through standing water can lead to loss of vehicle control, engine damage, or becoming trapped, as demonstrated by this incident. If you encounter a flooded road, turn around and seek an alternate route.

The rescue highlights the dedication of local first‑responders who work tirelessly to keep the community safe, especially during extreme weather conditions that are becoming more common in the Southwest.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.