# Emergency Declaration for New Mexico After Widespread Flooding

Santa Fe, N.M. — Acting Governor Howie Morales signed five executive orders Wednesday declaring a state of emergency over flooding across New Mexico, unlocking up to $3.75 million in state emergency money for flood-hit communities.

**What is happening:** Morales, the lieutenant governor, is serving as acting governor while Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is out of state. Executive Orders 2026-073 through 2026-077 each direct the Department of Finance and Administration to release $750,000 to the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) for flood response and recovery. The orders also direct the Adjutant General to deploy the New Mexico National Guard as needed to back up local authorities.

**Local impacts:** Heavy rainfall has caused flooding in multiple areas of the state, damaging public infrastructure, disrupting transportation routes, and threatening homes and businesses. With more rain in the forecast and local emergency agencies already stretched, the state money goes to communities whose response costs outrun their own resources. The funds can cover temporary lodging, shelter, health care, food and transportation needed to protect lives and property. Local governments seeking help must show their response costs exceed available resources and route requests through DHSEM.

**What to do:**

- Follow instructions from local officials and evacuate immediately if told to do so.

- Never drive, walk or swim through floodwaters.

- If you see water rising around you, get to higher ground immediately.

*Source: Santa Fe New Mexican, Oct. 2, 2026. Reported by TNW News.*