Flood Watch and New Severe Thunderstorm Watch Put Torrance County on Alert Through Late Tonight
The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a Flood Watch for the Estancia Valley, Central Highlands, Sandia and Manzano Mountains, and South Central Highlands, in effect through late tonight (Saturday, October 24, 2026). The Storm Prediction Center has also issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, which includes Torrance County and runs until 9 p.m. MST (10 p.m. MDT) tonight.
Showers and thunderstorms will expand in coverage through the afternoon. Forecasters say rainfall rates in excess of 1 inch per hour may cause flash flooding on soils that are already saturated. Arroyos, small streams, and channels may rise quickly, and repeated rounds of storms will increase the risk.
Flooding Concerns:
Excessive runoff may cause rivers, creeks, and streams to rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage areas and low-lying terrain, and low-water crossings may be flooded. Storm drains and ditches may also become clogged with debris. Residents of Mountainair, Estancia, Moriarty, and surrounding communities should be especially alert to arroyos that can fill within minutes.
Severe Storm Concerns:
A watch means conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms to develop, though not every area will see them. Residents should keep an eye on the sky, charge phones, and be ready to move indoors if a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued.
What You Should Do:
Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Do not drive through water over the roadway, and never park in an arroyo or wash. Monitor later forecasts and be prepared to act should Flash Flood Warnings be issued for your area.
For the latest forecast updates, visit the Albuquerque office of the National Weather Service or the National Weather Service Flood Safety Page. Torrance County residents can receive timely alerts by signing up for TextMyGovnotifications:
- 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