As monsoonal moisture moves into the region, West Texas and southern New Mexico are under a flash flood watch for storms that could produce up to five inches of rain in some areas.
The flash flood watch remains in effect until the evening hours of Wednesday, June 25, and includes the following areas: El Paso, Fabens, Las Cruces, Hatch, Deming and Ruidoso. Flooding can occur in low-water crossings, arroyos, and flood-prone areas, the National Weather Service warned.
The flash flood watch was upgraded to a flash flood warning for Ruidoso until 8:45 p.m. on Tuesday, June 24.
El Paso will experience a 90% chance of rain by 6 p.m. on Tuesday, June 24, with the chance of rain continuing into the nighttime hours and into Wednesday, June 25.
Parts of West Texas, including El Paso, have a slight risk of excessive rainfall on Tuesday and Wednesday, while parts of Central and southern New Mexico have a moderate risk, according to the Weather Prediction Center.
In New Mexico, burn scars left behind from last year’s South Fork and Salt Fire have the potential to turn even the smallest amount of rain into dangerous runoff, especially in flood-prone areas. A water rescue was captured in Ruidoso on Monday, June 23, after flood waters transformed streets into rivers, leaving vehicles submerged near Ruidoso Downs.
Flash flood warning in effect for Ruidoso
A flash flood warning is in effect for Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs and Hollywood, New Mexico, until 8:45 p.m. on Tuesday, June 24.
People should immediately move to higher ground and move away from areas impacted by burn scars.
What is a flash flood watch vs flash flood warning?
A flash flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur, according to the National Weather Service. While it doesn’t necessarily mean flash flooding will occur, it is still possible.
A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring, and people should move to higher ground.
What do I do before a flood?
Sometimes floods develop slowly, and forecasters can anticipate where a flood will happen days or weeks before it occurs. Often, flash floods can occur within minutes, sometimes without any visible sign of rain. Being prepared can save your life and give you peace of mind.
Safety tips during a flood
During a flood, water levels and the rate at which the water is flowing can quickly change. Stay informed and monitor local radio and television stations. Avoid flood waters at all costs and evacuate immediately when water starts to rise.
Natassia Paloma may be reached at npaloma@gannett.com, @NatassiaPaloma on Twitter; natassia_paloma on Instagram, and Natassia Paloma Thompson on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Flash flood watch in effect for El Paso, southern New Mexico on Tuesday and Wednesday
Reporting by Natassia Paloma, El Paso Times / El Paso Times
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