New Mexico received two federal declarations for flooding in October 2026, according to FEMA records.
Emergency declaration for October storms
On October 26, FEMA approved an emergency declaration (EM-3660) for severe storms and flooding that began on October 22. It covers:
- Counties: Cibola, Rio Arriba, Sandoval and San Juan
- Tribal areas: Jicarilla Apache Nation, Laguna Pueblo, Pueblo of Acoma, San Ildefonso Pueblo and Zia Pueblo
The emergency declaration provides Public Assistance for urgent work such as protecting lives and property and clearing debris. It does not include grants to households.
Major disaster declaration for July flooding
Earlier, on October 7, a major disaster declaration (DR-4954) was approved for severe storms and flooding at Zuni Pueblo between July 16 and 21. That declaration includes both help for households and Public Assistance.
Flooding in a dry state
New Mexico is one of the driest states, but it floods often. Summer monsoon storms can drop heavy rain in a short time, and dry, hard ground and burn scars from wildfires let water run off fast. Arroyos that are dry most of the year can turn into fast rivers within minutes.
In FEMA’s National Risk Index, inland flooding is the costliest hazard in many New Mexico counties, including Bernalillo County, home to Albuquerque.
Staying safe in flash floods
- Never drive into flooded roads or arroyos. Just a foot of moving water can carry away a car.
- Move to higher ground when a flash flood warning is issued.
- Watch the weather upstream. Rain miles away can send water into your area.
Questions people ask
Can households in the October storm area get FEMA grants? Not under the emergency declaration. The state can ask for a major disaster declaration with Individual Assistance if damage is large enough.
Does home insurance cover flash floods? No. Flood damage needs a separate flood policy. See our flood insurance guide.
Where can I see New Mexico’s full record? See the New Mexico state page and the Bernalillo County page.
Source: OpenFEMA Disaster Declarations Summaries, retrieved November 6, 2026.