San Juan County, New Mexico – Rising water levels on the Animas and San Juan Rivers prompted the San Juan County Office of Emergency Management to issue an urgent evacuation order on Saturday night. Officials warned that the river water is “getting close” to residential areas and urged anyone living along the riverbanks to evacuate without delay.
Evacuation shelter and resources
A temporary shelter has been set up at McGee Park in San Juan County for displaced residents. The park will provide basic necessities, including food, water, and a place to rest while families await further instructions.
Archuleta County, Colorado, issues parallel warning
Across the state line, the Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office in Colorado released an evacuation warning for neighborhoods along the San Juan, Rio Blanco, Navajo, and Piedra Rivers. The warning covers low‑lying and flood‑prone zones, and officials are urging residents to move to higher ground as soon as possible.
To help residents protect their property, sandbags are being distributed at two locations: the Archuleta County Building at 1122 Highway 84 and the Tara Community Center at 333 Milton Lane in Arboles, Colorado. County staff will continue to monitor river levels and update the public through local news outlets and social media channels.
How to stay safe during the flood threat
Both counties recommend the following safety steps:
- Do not attempt to drive through flooded roadways; water depth can be deceptive.
- Move valuable items and important documents to higher ground.
- Keep a battery‑powered radio or a charged phone handy for emergency alerts.
- Follow instructions from local officials and do not return to evacuated areas until an official “all clear” is issued.
Residents who have questions about the evacuation process or need assistance can contact the San Juan County Office of Emergency Management at (555) 123‑4567 or the Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office at (555) 987‑6543.
Community response
Local churches and volunteer groups have already begun mobilizing to provide meals and transportation for families heading to the shelter. Pastor John Miller of First Baptist Church in Pagosa Springs said, “We are grateful for the swift action of our emergency officials and stand ready to help our neighbors in need.” The community’s quick response underscores the strong family and faith values that keep these mountain towns resilient in the face of natural disasters.
Officials will continue to monitor weather forecasts and river gauges throughout the weekend. Updates will be posted on the San Juan County website and the Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office social‑media pages.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
