The New Mexico National Guard’s swift‑water rescue team was called to action on Wednesday, Sept. 30, after a Ford F‑150 stalled in rapidly rising floodwaters on Ojitos Fríos Creek in San Miguel County. Two occupants found themselves trapped atop the vehicle as the creek surged past the intersection of County Road A20 and Paco Road.
Coordinated response saves lives
Local emergency responders, including the Sheridan, Gallinas and Cabo Lucero volunteer fire departments, the San Miguel County Office of Emergency Management, the County Sheriff’s Office, New Mexico State Police District 2, NORCOM dispatch, and the Las Vegas fire and police departments, converged on the scene. AMR Ambulance in Las Vegas stood by to provide medical care once the victims were extracted.
Guard swift‑water specialists, trained for exactly these hazardous conditions, entered the creek and safely lifted the two occupants from the submerged pickup. Their quick, coordinated effort prevented a potential tragedy and demonstrated the Guard’s readiness to protect New Mexicans during extreme weather events.
Why swift‑water teams matter
New Mexico’s geography makes flash‑floods a recurring threat, especially during the monsoon season. Swift‑water rescue units are equipped with specialized boats, ropes, and personal‑protective gear to navigate fast‑moving water, conduct rope rescues, and retrieve victims from dangerous currents. Their presence in San Miguel County this week underscores the Guard’s commitment to community safety across the state.
In addition to the Ojitos Fríos Creek rescue, the Guard’s swift‑water teams have responded to multiple flood‑related incidents throughout New Mexico this week, assisting local fire departments, law‑enforcement agencies, and emergency‑management officials. Their efforts have helped keep residents safe and mitigate property damage in a season marked by heavy rains.
Community gratitude and future preparedness
County officials praised the Guard’s professionalism and rapid response. “We are grateful for the National Guard’s expertise and dedication,” said a spokesperson for the San Miguel County Office of Emergency Management. “Their teamwork with our local agencies saved lives and reinforced the importance of preparedness.”
Residents are reminded to stay informed about weather alerts, avoid driving through flooded roadways, and heed instructions from local authorities. The Guard encourages anyone who witnesses a flood‑related emergency to call 911 immediately, allowing trained responders to act swiftly.
As New Mexico continues to experience variable weather patterns, the partnership between the National Guard and local emergency services remains a vital component of the state’s public‑safety infrastructure.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
