A large cluster of tropical convection along the west coast of Mexico during the final days of September 2019 organized into Tropical Storm Narda through October 1, 2019. Meanwhile, an upper level low pressure system shifted south along the west coast of the United States allowing atmospheric flow to become southerly over the desert southwest. A record high level of atmospheric moisture for the month of October that surged north into New Mexico in this pattern led to widespread showers and thunderstorms with torrential rainfall over southeast New Mexico. One day rainfall totals averaged two to four inches with locally heavier amounts in excess of six inches from southern Chaves County northeastward into Roosevelt and Curry counties. Flash flooding impacted much of southern Chaves County where communities along U.S. 285 were inundated by flood waters. Flash flooding also occurred around Clovis and Portales as playa lakes overflowed onto nearby roadways.

Flash Flood in CHAVES, NEW MEXICO
From 01-OCT-19 03:00:00 to 01-OCT-19 09:00:00 (MST-7)
Location: DEXTER
Flood cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: 60.00K
Crop damage: 0.00K
Reported by: Department of Highways

Torrential rainfall over southern Chaves County led to flash flooding and large areas of ponding water over many roadways from near Dexter south to Hagerman. An observer a few miles west of Lake Arthur along Walnut Creek reported a whopping 6.50 of rain in 24 hours. State Road 2 was closed between Darby and Orchard Park roads, State Road 267 was closed between mile markers 11 and 15, U.S. Highway 285 was closed at Chikashaw Road, and State Road 409 was closed along the entire section leading to Bottomless State Park due to falling rocks and high water. Several roads were also closed throughout the community of Dexter. At least two vehicles were inundated in flood waters and motorists had to be rescued by emergency personnel. Fortunately, no one was injured during this flooding event. Damage amounts are estimated for total losses to two vehicles.

Flash Flood in CHAVES, NEW MEXICO
From 01-OCT-19 00:00:00 to 01-OCT-19 03:00:00 (MST-7)
Location: (ROW)ROSWELL IND AIRPORT
Flood cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: 150.00K
Crop damage: 0.00K
Reported by: Broadcast Media

The Roswell airport set a new daily record maximum rainfall amount of 3.44 for October 1st, breaking the previous record of 1.54 from 1998. Six to eight inches of water flooded a home on the south side of Roswell. Significant damage occurred to flooring, drywall, furniture, and other personal items. The entire family of seven was displaced into a hotel for several nights. Damage amounts are estimated for significant damage to the home and loss of most items inside.

Flash Flood in ROOSEVELT, NEW MEXICO
From 01-OCT-19 05:00:00 to 01-OCT-19 07:30:00 (MST-7)
Location: FLOYD
Flood cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: 100.00K
Crop damage: 0.00K
Reported by: Broadcast Media

A CoCoRaHS observer near Causey reported a whopping 6.87 of rain in just 24 hours. State Road 267 was closed due to flash flooding between mile markers 11 and 15 west of Portales.

Flash Flood in CURRY, NEW MEXICO
From 01-OCT-19 05:30:00 to 01-OCT-19 08:00:00 (MST-7)
Location: TEXICO
Flood cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: 100.00K
Crop damage: 0.00K
Reported by: Broadcast Media

An amateur radio operator two miles west-northwest of Clovis reported 4.50 of rainfall in 24 hours. Significant flooding impacted low lying areas around Clovis. Dennis Chavez Park overflowed into nearby streets resulting in several stranded motorists. Local emergency services rescued several people from their vehicles. State Road 77 was also closed due to flooding near Pleasant Hill. Damage amounts are estimated for flood damage to one half dozen vehicles.