LAS VEGAS, N.M. (KRQE) – A flash flood emergency was issued for Las Vegas, New Mexico and Romeroville until 12 a.m. on Saturday, according to the National Weather Service.
The NWS said one to four inches of rain have fallen in the area on Friday including the southern part of the Hermits Peak Calf Canyon burn scar. The City of Las Vegas opened two shelters for the community as residents are asked to evacuate parts of the city.
NM Roads has an alert listed for I-25 north and southbound at Mile Marker 342 along with NM 250 about standing water on the road. The New Mexico Department of Transportation closed NM 65 at milepost 5 (Montezuma) due to flash flooding.
Evacuations:
NM Highway 65 from Mile Marker 4, south along Hot Spring Blvd.
Los Vigiles Area
Fountain Drive
Willow Lane
Stella Lane
Lucille Drive
El Llano Road
Cidner Road to Mills Avenue
Officials are recommending residents within 250 feet of the Gallinas River to evacuate to safer areas as well.
Shelters:
McFarland Hall, corner of 5th and Friedman
Abe Montoya Recreation Center, 1751 N. Grand Ave.
Riverwalk Park is closed, officials said. Sandbags are being distributed at Las Vegas City Hall (1700 North Grand Avenue), and there is a limit of 20 bags per household.
Those needing assistance can call the Las Vegas Police Department at 505-425-7504.
The city is also asking for people to limit their non-essential water usage at this time.