Flood Watch Issued for Torrance County on Sunday

The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a Flood Watch for Torrance County, including Mountainair and the Estancia Valley, beginning Sunday afternoon, July 13, and continuing through Sunday evening. This alert follows forecasts indicating the potential for flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall.

Storms are expected to develop along the central mountain chain around midday Sunday, gradually moving southwest into the eastern highlands during the afternoon and evening. These thunderstorms are forecast to produce intense rainfall rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour, which could quickly overwhelm drainage systems, particularly in low-lying or flood-prone areas.

The Flood Watch includes key travel and population corridors in the Sandia and Manzano Mountains, Edgewood, the Estancia Valley, and the Central and South Central Highlands, as well as Guadalupe and Eastern Lincoln counties.

Impacts:

• Excessive rainfall may lead to rapid rises in arroyos, rivers, and streams.
• Flash flooding is possible, especially in areas with poor drainage or steep terrain.
• Conditions could quickly become dangerous for travelers and residents in affected areas.

Safety Tips:

• Monitor local forecasts closely and have a plan in place in case of Flash Flood Warnings.
• Avoid crossing flooded roads, arroyos, and low-water crossings—“Turn around, don’t drown.”
• Prepare to move to higher ground if flooding threatens your area.

For more information on flood preparedness, visit the National Weather Service flood safety site. To stay up to date on local conditions, consult the Albuquerque office of the National Weather Service and register for emergency alerts from the Torrance County Department of Emergency Management’s Code Red system.