EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office and Fire Rescue responded to significant flooding in the Vado area late Tuesday night, July 22, which prompted evacuations and search operations, the County said.
The County says the area experienced over two inches of rain in the region, and floodwaters have impacted over 600 homes, prompting emergency evacuations.
Search operations began early Wednesday morning, July 23, and emergency crews transported at least 15 people to the Vado Community Center at 180 La Fe Avenue, which is serving as an emergency evacuation shelter.
“Some have since left and chose to not stay overnight,” the County said.
Search teams actively searched affected neighborhoods and properties to ensure all residents were accounted for and assisted those who needed rescue or medical attention, the County said.
“This is a large-scale operation, and we’re working closely with our partners to make sure homes are checked and no one is left behind,” Doña Ana Fire Rescue Deputy Chief Cody Haver said.
Officials deployed five emergency rescue units to the area to assist emergency crews and help with transportation to local hospitals as necessary.
Officials also assisted with traffic control in affected areas, the County said.
Doña Ana County’s Office of Emergency Management has activated its Emergency Operations Center to support ongoing response efforts and coordinate resources, the County said.
Residents are asked to avoid flooded areas, including closed roads and irrigation canals.
Residents who are experiencing non-life-threatening flooding or utility issues are encouraged to call the non-emergency dispatch line at (575) 526-0795.
Damage reports can be submitted online via the Rapid Property Damage Assessment tool.
Multiple agencies assisted including Doña Ana Fire Rescue, the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, the Las Cruces Fire Department’s Swift Water Rescue Team, the American Red Cross, Elephant Butte Irrigation District, the Doña Ana County Flood Commission, New Mexico National Guard, and the New Mexico Department of Transportation.
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