Tue. Nov 5th, 2024

Barrels and caution tape line the Rio Hondo in Roswell’s downtown on Oct. 28, 2024, more than a week after floods driven by a record rainstorm poured through town, resulting in the deaths of at least two people, and the loss of residents’ homes and cars. (Danielle Prokop / Source NM)

Roswell-area residents and business owners may be able to get federal financial help after President Joe Biden’s declaration of a disaster following last month’s deadly flash flooding.

Biden made the declaration Friday, following fellow Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s request. A federal disaster declaration unlocks federal grants and loans for those impacted by the Oct. 18 storm that killed two people, wrecked buildings and washed away cars.

The money can cover temporary housing and home repairs, loans for uninsured property losses and other programs. 

Those who need assistance can request it by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA App.

Before applying, the Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends the following steps: 

  1. Take photos of damaged homes or belongings
  2. Make a list of damaged or lost items
  3. If you have insurance, file a claim with your insurance company
  4. Apply for assistance 

Biden’s disaster declaration makes the funding available in Chaves County.

State emergency management officials reported more than 300 water rescues during the storm. In one instance, over 100 people sheltered on the rooftops of the Roswell Convention and Civic Center. The National Weather Service said the storm dumped almost 6 inches of rain, a record for a single weather event in Roswell.

Source New Mexico has asked for a copy of New Mexico’s disaster declaration request. We will update this story if and when we receive it.

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