San Juan River breaches banks again, forcing new evacuations in Farmington

The San Juan River reached major flood stage around noon on Monday, November 2, triggering fresh evacuations across San Juan County. The Animas River also overflowed its banks. Emergency alerts instructed anyone living within half a mile of either river to leave their homes immediately. This new surge of water arrived while residents were still cleaning up from the severe flooding that struck the area the previous week.

Wild Horse Valley, one of the neighborhoods hit hardest by last week's storm, is once again dealing with rising water. Residents report that the situation has left them exhausted and frightened. Shawnita Jones, a local resident, described the community as devastated by the repeated storms. She noted that the constant thunder and lightning have terrified her children. Jones also reported that falling trees struck their house during the recent weather event.

Jones said water has entered homes across the neighborhood. Families are struggling to recover from the initial damage while managing the new floodwaters. The flooding has also claimed many animals. Jones stated that her own animals did not return for a full day. She observed that neighbors lost cattle and chickens, leaving very few animals visible in the area now.

Emergency managers spread evacuation orders across parts of the county as river levels continued to rise. The timing of the new flood complicated efforts to repair homes and clear debris from the earlier disaster. Families in affected zones worked through the day to protect what they could as water levels fluctuated.

The San Juan River remains at major flood stage. The Animas River is also over its banks. These conditions have expanded the zone of concern for residents throughout San Juan County. Local officials continue to monitor the water levels as the second consecutive day of heavy weather passes.