Flash Flood Warning in Effect Through 8:45 PM for Northwestern Torrance County; Heavy Rain Ongoing
The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a Flash Flood Warning for northwestern Torrance County and northeastern Valencia County, in effect until 8:45 p.m. MDT this evening (Monday, September 14, 2026).
Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly. At 5:43 p.m. MDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Up to 2.5 inches of rain have already fallen, with additional rainfall amounts up to 0.5 inches possible in the warned area. The combination of heavy rainfall already received and continued rain creates dangerous conditions for rapidly rising water in arroyos and streams.
Immediate Hazards:
Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses is expected. Low-lying areas and poor drainage locations are particularly vulnerable. Both localized and distant heavy rainfall will create sudden and dangerous flows in arroyos and over low-water crossings. Water from upstream thunderstorms can reach your location with little warning, and flow rates can be extremely dangerous.
The warning affects mainly rural areas of northwestern Torrance County and the foothills terrain where arroyo systems drain rapidly during heavy rain events.
Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Do not attempt to cross flooded roadways or drive through areas where water covers the pavement. Never park vehicles in arroyos or washes, even if they appear dry. Find alternate routes and avoid travel in the warned area until this warning expires.
For the latest forecast updates, visit the Albuquerque office of the National Weather Service. Torrance County residents can receive timely alerts by signing up for TextMyGov notifications:
- Text TORRANCE COUNTY to 80946 for general and emergency alerts
- Text TORRANCE FIRE ALERTS to 80946 for information on prescribed burns or active fires in the area
- Text TORRANCE NWS to 80946 for weather-related alerts