Flooding from the San Juan River has led to helicopter rescues by the National Guard and state police in Bloomfield, New Mexico, with at least 60 people rescued since Thursday.
BLOOMFIELD, N.M. —
The National Guard and state police are rescuing stranded residents in Bloomfield, New Mexico, after the San Juan River overflowed following intense storms this week.
The flooding has left significant standing water in the area. Cars are submerged, water is seeping into the ground level of homes and residents are wading to their front doors. Some parts of the riverbank are unrecognizable due to the rising floodwaters.
This is prompting coordinated efforts by the National Guard and State Police to respond to calls from stranded residents.
Lobo Dustoff, New Mexico’s National Guard team, has been scanning the river for residents who cannot call in their locations.
Lobo Dustoff explained their rescue process to KOAT.
Once a location is identified, one medic is lowered via hook, while the crew chief guides them to a landing spot. Those rescued are secured by the medic before being hoisted into the Black Hawk helicopter.
Law enforcement officials reported that at least 60 rescues have been conducted between Farmington and Bloomfield since Thursday afternoon.
San Juan County officials are urging residents to stay away from flooded areas and avoid attempting to cross flooded roads. They also recommend keeping emergency alerts on, as more rain is expected in the impacted area.
A shelter has been set up at McGee Park in San Juan County for those needing to evacuate. Pets are allowed at the shelter.
