SANTA FE, N.M. – People living in a neighborhood in the southern part of Santa Fe are concerned for those nearby who have lost road access due to recent flooding.
Those living off Marquez Ville Road at Paseo Galisteo only had a small dirt road serving as the way in and out of their neighborhood.
But heavy rainfall in recent days resulted in strong rapids that ripped the road in half, making it impassable for any vehicles.
“My auntie just said that on Monday morning it was a little river. And when she came, it got [turned] into a big river. This could not be happening,” said Ariana Almeida, who was visiting family in the area.
But Almeida’s family is relatively lucky because they live on the right side of that river, meaning they didn’t suffer the same fate. But they do worry about their neighbors who did get cut off.
Ivan Almeida wonders how they’re handling the situation if they have to leave their home.
“Walking around or going all the way around, but I don’t know any other way to get over there,” he told KOB 4.
Santa Fe County is aware of the situation and has set up a phone line to assist those impacted by recent flooding. The number to call if you need help is (505) 428-3737.
County officials say the Arroyo Hondo overflowed this week, leading to scenes some say they haven’t ever witnessed in Santa Fe.
“No, I’ve never seen this before. They told me that it was like 20 years ago that it happened. So, my parents just told me. And I thought it wasn’t real, but it was,” said Ariana Almeida.
Officials estimate around 20 households have been cut off by the recent flooding although the good news is no water rescues were necessary.
Firefighters were able to gain access to the area to check on those residents who can’t drive out the neighborhood. However, it’s still unclear when the road will be fixed since the water in the area was still flowing rapidly as of Wednesday night.
For some though, it’s a reminder of how quickly severe weather can cause significant damage, especially to dirt roads.
“So, on Monday morning we woke up at like 7, and it had hardly [rained]. We headed up to work. We came back at like 12, and it was already flooded,” said Ivan Almeida.
