Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Officials are Working to Prevent Flash Flooding

People in the area of the Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon Fires were worried that wildfires would destroy their homes. They are particularly concerned about flash flooding as the monsoon season approaches. 

The Calf Canyon and Hermits Peak Fires have left the area desolate and vulnerable to flash flooding. Cyn Palmer, a resident of Rociada, New Mexico, roughly 27 miles northwest of Las Vegas, has been putting sandbags in front of her house. She has a burn scar in front of her house. "The incline above me has vanished. It's gone up in flames. Because the trees are matchsticks, there is nothing in the soil to hold the water.

So I've done a little sandbagging of my own. Palmer stated, "I want to do more." 

Crews are attempting to minimize the possibility of flash flooding. They're erecting water bars and modifying existing bulldozer lines to block the fire from spreading. Their purpose is to divert the water away from the area. 

Water barriers are currently being constructed around communities by crews. Sandbags are being distributed in many locations to assist those in need.

What Is a Flash Flood?

A flash flood is a fast-moving flood that occurs because of intense rainfall and rapidly rising water levels. The term is most often used to refer to flooding that occurs in areas that are prone to floodings, such as low-lying coastal areas or river deltas. 

Flash floods can also occur in places that are more normally exposed to heavy rainfall, but where the soil is already saturated, such as in hilly areas or near bodies of water. The sudden onset and strong force of a flash flood can cause significant property damage and endanger lives.

Flash floods can be dangerous, especially when they occur during or after periods of heavy rain. The ground may be saturated from recent rainfall, making it susceptible to rapid runoff. This runoff can quickly overwhelm drainage systems and cause flooding. 

In addition, flash floods may be accompanied by high winds, which can lead to power outages. Flash floods occur most often during tropical storms and hurricanes and their remnants.

Unlike other types of flooding in New Mexico, flash floods develop quickly and often with little warning.

How do Sandbags Prevent Flash Flood Damage?

Floodwater damage can be prevented or reduced by using sandbags effectively. Properly filled and placed sandbags can divert flowing water away from rather than through buildings. Sandbags are often used, and they function adequately in most situations.

Sandbags are not guaranteed to create a water-tight seal, but they are often utilized to divert flowing water away from streams and levees as well as to train water flow in a specific location.

Where Can I get Sandbags in the Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon Fire Areas?

Here are the places you can get sandbags:

• San Miguel County Public Works - 10 Airport Road
• Cabo Lucero Volunteer Fire Department - 21 County Rd A29
• La Placita Volunteer Fire Department - 242 State Route 65 (N.M. 65)
• Sapello-Rociada Volunteer Fire Department - 649 State Route 94 (N.M. 94)
• San Geronimo Volunteer Fire Department - County Road A19A (CR A19A)

Why Do You Need to Prepare for a Flood?

A flash flood can happen very quickly and without warning in New Mexico. In just a few minutes, floodwaters can rise high enough to sweep away cars and damage buildings. If you are in New Mexico, It's important to be prepared for a flash flood.

Flash floods in New Mexico are often accompanied by dangerous weather conditions, such as thunderstorms and tornadoes. When a flash flood occurs, it's often difficult to get help because emergency responders are often stretched thin.

That's why it's important to have an evacuation plan in place and ensure you have all of the necessary supplies in case you need to evacuate your home.

How to Prepare for a Flash Flood

Before a flood hits in Mew Mexico, it's important to take some precautions to ensure your safety. Here are a few tips to help you get ready for a flash flood in New Mexico:

• Make sure you have a plan in case of an emergency. Decide ahead of time where you'll go if you need to evacuate and make sure everyone in your family knows the plan.
• Have a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio to keep up with the latest weather forecasts and warnings.
• Fill up your car's gas tank and store drinking water and non-perishable food items.
• Move valuable items and furniture to higher ground.
• If you live in a low-lying area, consider evacuating until the floodwaters recede.

How Can You Stay Safe During a Flash Flood?

Flash floods in New Mexico can be incredibly dangerous, and it's important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Always listen to local authorities and evacuate when they tell you to. Do not try to cross flooded roads - you could easily be swept away.
• If you're caught in a flash flood, seek higher ground immediately. Do not wait until the water level rises - by then it will be too late.
• Make sure you have a plan in place in case of a flood emergency. That means knowing where you will go if you have to evacuate, having an emergency kit ready to go, and making sure your family is aware of the plan as well.
• Stay informed! Keep track of weather conditions and local weather forecasts and be prepared for the worst.

Contact an Experienced Attorney

Wildfires often cause a lot of damage in a very short amount of time and often lead to serious injuries and fatalities. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed as a result of the Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Our personal injury lawyers at Will Ferguson & Associates will help you assess your case and determine if you have a valid claim. We will also guide you through the legal process and help you obtain the maximum amount of compensation possible. Contact us now for a free consultation to discuss your case.

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