What's Happening?
The federal government has partially approved Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's request for an emergency declaration in response to severe flooding in northern New Mexico. This declaration covers San Juan, Rio Arriba, Cibola, and Sandoval counties, along
with Acoma Pueblo, Jicarilla Apache Nation, San Ildefonso Pueblo, Zia Pueblo, and Laguna Pueblo. The approval authorizes direct federal assistance, allowing the state to request support from various federal agencies, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for debris removal and damage assessments, the U.S. Geological Survey for flood monitoring, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for drinking water testing, and FEMA for mass care, sheltering, and drinking water distribution. Governor Lujan Grisham also signed executive orders making an additional $8.25 million in state funding available for flood response, with $750,000 allocated for the National Guard's flood response in San Juan County and $7.5 million for the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management's disaster response. The federal government, however, did not grant the state's full request for reimbursement for debris removal and emergency protective measures.
Why It's Important?
This partial federal emergency declaration is crucial for northern New Mexico as it unlocks vital federal resources and funding to aid in the ongoing flood response and initial recovery efforts. The direct federal assistance will significantly bolster the state's capacity to manage the aftermath of the historic flooding, which has already necessitated hundreds of water rescues and caused widespread disruption. The state's allocation of an additional $8.25 million underscores the severity of the situation and the immediate need for resources. While the federal government's decision to not fully reimburse for debris removal and emergency protective measures presents a financial challenge, the approved assistance will still provide critical support for affected communities and Tribal nations. This declaration helps alleviate some of the financial burden on local and state entities, allowing them to focus on immediate relief and safety measures. The collaboration between state, federal, and Tribal partners is essential for an effective and coordinated response to such large-scale natural disasters.
What's Next?
Governor Lujan Grisham plans to request a Major Disaster Declaration once damage assessments are complete to seek full federal reimbursement and additional recovery assistance. This subsequent request will likely include Santa Fe and Socorro counties, with more counties potentially added as further damage is assessed. The state is currently preparing this request. Residents affected by the flooding are advised to call 911 for immediate danger, 2-1-1 for other assistance, avoid floodwaters, and check road conditions via nmroads.com. The Governor's Office also announced a planned visit to affected communities with New Mexico National Guard leadership to continue initial damage assessments. The ongoing efforts will focus on ensuring public safety, assessing the full extent of the damage, and securing the necessary long-term recovery funds.
