In Roswell, New Mexico, one individual has died due to flooding caused by unprecedented rainfall. Authorities are urging residents to avoid the streets as many find themselves trapped in vehicles by rising waters.

Rescue efforts took place on Saturday night and Sunday morning following the inundation of roads and residences in Roswell. Some individuals had to wait on their car roofs as the floodwaters escalated, submerging their cars.

Roswell, known for the alleged UFO crash in 1947, is home to about 48,000 residents.

“Please stay off the roads if you can,” the city advised in a Facebook update on Sunday. “Flood response operations are underway, and certain areas are still hazardous. There’s also debris on the roads that could be dangerous. Fewer vehicles will help us clean up more efficiently.”

Rain began on Friday and is forecasted to persist into Sunday, as per meteorologist Carter Greulich from the National Weather Service in Albuquerque. Intense rain commenced on Saturday evening between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. local time.

Historic Rainfall

This storm marks the first of the fall season for New Mexico and has shattered a daily record that stood for over 120 years.

On Saturday, Roswell recorded 5.78 inches of rain, surpassing the previous daily record of 5.65 inches set in 1901, according to the National Weather Service.

This volume of precipitation is considered “a remarkable historic event” for Roswell, according to Greulich.

Nearby areas also experienced substantial rainfall, ranging from 4 to nearly 8 inches, with one region recording as much as 7.81 inches.

Residents Advised to Avoid Roadways

Officials advise those in Roswell and surrounding areas to steer clear of flooded roads and “just do your best to remain in a safe situation,” stated Greulich.

The storm has resulted in significant flooding within homes, as reported by the city. A temporary shelter has been established at the Eastern New Mexico State Fairgrounds for those requiring evacuation.

Assistance with rescuing trapped individuals comes from the City of Roswell’s police and fire departments, the Chaves County Sheriff’s Office, county volunteer fire departments, state police, National Guard, and other agencies from adjacent cities.

Flood Recovery Timeline Uncertain

On Sunday, the National Weather Service indicated they could not determine when the floodwaters would recede.

The city has shifted towards recovery operations, yet smaller rivers and streams are overwhelmed by the rain, and the geography does not facilitate rapid drainage, as stated by Greulich. “So it may take some time for the water to recede.”

Additionally, debris may be obstructing waterways, which could delay the dissipation of floodwaters in the area.