Albuquerque N.M. – Two people were swept into an arroyo near Moon and Spain around 10 p.m. Tuesday as strong storms moved through Albuquerque. According to Albuquerque Fire Rescue, the individuals were carried west of Wyoming Boulevard but managed to escape safely. No serious injuries were reported.
The incident underscores the dangers of flash flooding during New Mexico’s monsoon season. Arroyos can fill rapidly, even when it’s not raining nearby, creating hazardous conditions for anyone in or near the channels.
Willie West, real estate manager with the Albuquerque Metropolitan Arroyo Flood Control Authority, says water in these channels can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour during flash floods. He emphasized that no one is entirely safe from being caught in these fast-moving waters, especially in smaller arroyos located in the Northeast Heights and West Side.
West also urged residents — particularly children and unhoused individuals — to avoid using arroyos for recreation or travel.
While Tuesday’s rain has subsided, forecasters expect more storms later in the week, which could lead to additional flooding risks.
