San Juan County officials and state emergency teams have launched recovery operations following the historic flooding that swept through northern New Mexico and the rare EF‑1 tornado that struck Santa Fe on Saturday. The tornado, the first to hit the capital since at least 1991, damaged several homes and prompted immediate evacuations.
Evacuation zones and shelter availability
All evacuation orders remain in effect while crews conduct secondary searches to confirm that no residents were missed. McGee Park continues to operate as an emergency shelter, with additional space still available for those displaced by the floods or tornado.
Utility status and safety measures
Water and wastewater systems are fully functional, and drinking water is declared safe. Private wells may have been contaminated, and the state has been asked to assist with well testing. Power outages affect roughly 500 customers; crews are inspecting the electric grid, turning off service where damage is found, and working to restore power as quickly as possible. Residential natural‑gas service is largely intact, though customers are instructed to call New Mexico Gas or 911 if a leak is suspected.
River levels and dam conditions
River waters in San Juan County are receding, and officials report no new rescues in the past 24 hours. Navajo Lake sits at 64% capacity with 53 feet of storage, and Navajo Dam is operating safely, releasing the minimum 250 cubic feet per second required for stable operations. Both Electra Lake and Lake Nighthorse are secure and not releasing water at this time.
Governor’s involvement
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham plans to visit the flood‑impacted areas of San Juan County to assess damage and coordinate additional resources. Her presence underscores the state’s commitment to supporting affected families and restoring normalcy.
How residents can help
Volunteer opportunities are available through the Red Cross, and individuals seeking to assist can call 211 for information on resources, donations, and volunteer registration. Community members are encouraged to support recovery efforts while respecting safety zones and ongoing utility repairs.
Looking ahead
Additional recovery resources are expected to arrive in the coming days, aiming to expedite the return of displaced residents to their homes and ensure that critical infrastructure remains reliable. Authorities continue to monitor river levels and weather conditions to prevent further hazards.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
