Chaves County Flooding
If you have questions or need resources after the flooding in Chaves county, call DHSEM’s Disaster Response and Recovery Hotline at 1-833-663-4736 or continue scrolling for information.
FEMA individual assistance is now available
Residents impacted by the flooding in Chaves County can now apply for FEMA Individual Assistance in the following ways:
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do with the debris in and around my house?
Residents may move debris to within 10 feet of curb. Please sort debris into categories. Eligible debris includes appliances, building materials (wet drywall, etc) furniture and clothing, and vegetation. Hazardous materials and electronics (computers, phones) will NOT be picked up.
More information and guidance for cleaning up can be found below the FAQ section on this page.
My home is no longer safe and I need shelter
The Red Cross of NM has a shelter open at the Easter New Mexico Fairgrounds, 2500 SE Main St, Roswell, NM 88203. Meals are being provided at the shelter.
Livestock and domestic pets are being accepted if they are crated/contained.
How do I get medical care or replace medications lost in the flood?
All hospitals are currently open as usual. You can also reach out to the NM Department of Health Helpline: 1-800-283-4465.
In the event of a medical emergency, call 911.
I need help with SNAP Benefits
Residents with active SNAP accounts who need to replace lost cards due to floding can call 1-800-283-4465 and request to fill out an ISD446 form to report benefits lost. This can also be done at a local SNAP benefits office. Residents have 30 days from the disaster to fill this form out.
Disaster SNAP is not currently available but this page will be updated if that changes.
Are local facilities closed?
The following City of Roswell facilities are closed until further notice: Recreation and Aquatic Center, Adult Center, Spring River Zoo, Public Library, Museum, Convention Center, Nancy Lopez Golf Course, South Park Cemetery.
Cleaning up after a flood
Safe and timely cleanup is necessary for health and safety after a flood. Here are some important tips on how to do so safely and document any damage:
Prioritize safety.
Wear protective gear such as long pants, sturdy shoes, goggles, gloves and masks when handling debris. Contact your local emergency manager if you have storm-related debris that poses a threat to public health or safety. Stay off damaged structures to prevent any injuries and watch out for snakes or animals. As you clear debris, look carefully for any visible cables and wait for professionals to handle them.
Take pictures
Documentation will be crucial for insurance claims and any federal assistance that may become available. Take pictures of the damage BEFORE you clean and repair.
Contact your insurance company early to file a claim.
Before starting the cleanup, document all damaged items with photographs, videos and keep all receipts for the work performed for insurance claims and other assistance programs.
Seek professional help.
You can request assistance from volunteer organizations or companies who can help with cutting fallen trees, drywall, flooring and appliance removal, tarping roofs and mold mitigation.
Be cautious around power lines.
Never touch, cut, remove or place debris on downed power lines. As power is restored, this could cause damage, serious injury, or death. If you need to use a chainsaw during debris removal, take extra precautions to avoid contact with power lines and ensure that bystanders are at a safe distance.
Clean and disinfect everything that got wet.
Follow the five basic steps for flood-damaged structures: air out, move out, tear out, clean out and dry out. Always wash your hands with soap and water after handling items contaminated by floodwater or sewage.
Be aware of hazardous materials and toxic substances.
Call your local fire department to inspect or remove chemicals, propane tanks and other hazardous materials. If you get your drinking water from a private well and your area has experienced flooding, make sure the water is safe before drinking. Seal hazardous debris in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne and never burn debris as it can be toxic.
Know how to separate debris and where to place it.
Never block the roadway with debris. Place debris away from trees, poles or structures, including fire hydrants and meters. You can separate debris into five categories when disposing along the curb:
- Electronics (such as televisions, computers, phones)
- Large appliances (such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, stoves or dishwashers. Be sure to seal or secure the doors so they are not accessible)
- Vegetative debris (such as tree branches, leaves or plants)
- Construction debris (such as drywall, lumber, carpet or furniture)
- Household garbage, discarded food, paper or packaging
Latest News & Executive Orders
To view the latest news releases and executive orders please visit the Chaves County Fire newsroom.
General Resources
HELP NM – provides financial assistance to those who lack a fixed or inadequate residence and currently reside in a shelter, transitional housing or hotel.
NM Crisis and Access Line – Professional counselors and peer support.
NM Children Youth and Families Department – provides an array of prevention, intervention, rehabilitative and after-care services to New Mexico children and their families