New Mexico Acting Governor Declares Emergency as Floods Hit State

The aftermath of flash flooding in Mexican Springs, N.M., on the eastern part of the Navajo Nation, on Sept. 17, 2026. Darnell Etsitty via AP

New Mexico Acting Gov. Howie Morales declared a state of emergency on Sept. 30 over flooding that has hit communities across the state from the remnants of Hurricane Polo.

Morales signed five executive orders, each freeing up $750,000 in immediate state assistance. Together, they put up to $3.75 million in the hands of the state’s Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for response and recovery, according to the governor’s office.

“Communities across New Mexico need help staving off these torrential floodwaters, and they need it now,” Morales said.

Heavy rain has damaged public infrastructure, cut transportation routes, and threatened homes and businesses. With more rain forecast, local agencies that have run out of money to respond to the emergency will receive support from the state, Morales said.

Executive Orders 2026-073 through 2026-077 direct the Department of Finance and Administration to release the funds. The money can go toward temporary lodging, shelter, healthcare, food, and transportation. The orders also allow the adjutant general to send the New Mexico National Guard if local authorities need the help.

To receive aid, local governments must show that their response costs have exceeded what they have available.

Residents have been urged to follow local instructions, leave immediately if ordered to evacuate, and never drive, walk, or swim through floodwater.

Parts of the state are already under evacuation orders.

“Residents who are evacuating should take essential medications, identification, important documents, necessary supplies and items for children and pets,” the county alert stated.

The same day, the National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for northwestern Doña Ana County after dam operators warned that McLeod Dam was at risk of imminent failure. Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) said officials had warned the dam’s failure could potentially lead to “life-threatening flooding downstream.”

On Wednesday, the Hatch Valley Public School District closed its schools.

“Due to the recent heavy rains, we are aware that many of our families are being impacted by impassable roads, flooding, and limited transportation,” the district said.

The state Transportation Department reported flooded roads and debris on highways. In Ruidoso, emergency managers issued a voluntary evacuation notice for Upper Canyon over landslide risk after a flash-flooding warning was issued for Sept. 30.

Aldgra Fredly and The Associated Press contributed to this report.