New Mexico Seeks Major Disaster Declaration After Flooding

Members of New Mexico’s congressional delegation are asking President Barack Obama to take action on the state’s request for a major disaster declaration due to summer flooding.

Severe storms in late July and early August resulted in flooding that damaged roads, bridges and other infrastructure in several New Mexico counties and tribal communities.

A disaster declaration would free up federal funding to help with recovery efforts and repairs.

Gov. Susana Martinez requested the declaration in a letter sent Monday.

Her office says damages resulting from the storms have currently been assessed at nearly $4 million. The greatest overall damage occurred at Acoma Pueblo, where access to the backcountry was cut off for residents.

Extreme weather also caused significant damage in southeastern New Mexico.