Flood Safety: What to Do Before, During, and After a Flood

Public Safety

Flood Safety: What to Do Before, During, and After a Flood

In the desert, heavy rain can turn dry arroyos, dips in the road, and low-lying areas into fast-moving water within minutes. A few simple steps can help keep you and your family safe.

Current Weather Alerts

Flood Watch

In effect until 6:00 AM Wednesday, Sept. 30

Remnants of Hurricane Polo are expected to bring multiple rounds of heavy rain and storms. Rainfall of 1.5 to 2.5 inches is expected across the region through Tuesday night, with isolated amounts of 3 to 4 inches. Rain from last week has left the ground wet, which increases the flood risk.

Wind Advisory

12:00 PM Tuesday, Sept. 29, to 9:00 AM Wednesday, Sept. 30

Southwest winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 60 mph. Secure loose objects outdoors, and use extra caution when driving high-profile vehicles.

Source: National Weather Service El Paso. Conditions can change quickly. Check weather.gov/elpaso for the latest information.

Now Available

Sandbags for Residents

Sandbags can be picked up at:

Fire Station 1
1030 McNutt Rd.
Sunland Park, NM 88063

Get Directions

Turn Around, Don't Drown

Moving water is stronger than it looks. Never walk or drive through a flooded road.

6 in.

of moving water can knock an adult off their feet.

12 in.

of moving water can carry away most cars.

2 ft.

of moving water can sweep away SUVs and trucks.

Know the Difference

Flood Watch

Be Prepared

Conditions are right for flooding. Review your plan, charge your phone, and keep an eye on the forecast.

Flash Flood Warning

Take Action Now

Flooding is happening or about to happen. Move to higher ground right away and stay off flooded roads.

What to Do

1

Before a Flood

Turn on emergency alerts on your phone and sign up for City updates through Sunland Park Connect.
Pick up sandbags at Fire Station 1, 1030 McNutt Rd., to help protect doorways and low spots around your home.
Clear leaves, trash, and debris from yard drains and gutters so water can flow freely.
Bring inside or tie down trash cans, patio furniture, and trampolines. Strong winds are also possible.
Park vehicles away from arroyos and low spots.
Pack a basic kit: water, medications, a flashlight, batteries, a phone charger, and important documents in a waterproof bag.
Know how you would get to higher ground, and check on older neighbors or anyone who may need help.

2

During a Flood

Never drive or walk through flooded roads. You can't tell how deep the water is or whether the road underneath has washed out.
Stay out of arroyos, drainage channels, and low-water crossings, even if they look dry. Water can arrive from rain miles away.
Keep children and pets away from moving water and storm drains.
Avoid driving if you don't need to, especially at night, when water on the road is harder to see.
If your vehicle is caught in fast-moving water, stay inside. If water rises inside the vehicle, climb onto the roof and call 911.
Stay away from downed power lines and call 911.

3

After a Flood

Stay out of floodwater. It can hide debris, sharp objects, and live electrical wires, and it may be contaminated.
Do not drive around barricades or onto roads that are still closed.
Watch for damaged pavement. Washouts and potholes may be hard to see.
Take photos of any damage to your home or property for insurance records.
Clean and disinfect anything that got wet from floodwater.
Report road damage, debris, or blocked drains online through Sunland Park Connect.

Stay Informed

In an emergency or if someone is in danger, call 911.

Sunland Park Connect Get City notifications and report issues online. Sign Up National Weather Service El Paso Check current watches, warnings, and the forecast. View Forecast Ready.gov Flood Guide More tips on preparing your home and family. Learn More