Three people lost their lives due to severe flooding that occurred on Wednesday morning in the Navajo area of New Mexico.
Incident Report
The tribal police received a report at 12:30 AM about individuals drowning near the Newcomb community. This report came after a day of heavy rainfall that caused flooding on roads and other areas. The rain continued throughout the night.
Read more: Russia's Drone Attack on a Bus in Ukraine Left Five Dead
Search for Victims
Search teams were dispatched to the scene and found the bodies of two adults and one child. Officials did not provide further details about the circumstances of the drownings and stated that an investigation is ongoing.
Navajo Nation President, Buu Nygren, expressed condolences to the families of the victims and thanked the rescuers who searched for individuals under difficult and dangerous conditions. He said in a social media message: "We offer our deepest condolences to the families, relatives, and loved ones who are grieving today. We pray that you are surrounded by strength, peace, and love from your family and community in the difficult days ahead."
The National Weather Service in Albuquerque issued a special report on Tuesday and warned of widespread thunderstorms in the coming days. The agency reiterated its warnings on Wednesday, stating that humidity levels are approaching mid-September records.
Flood Warnings
Heavy rainfall is forecasted for various areas in the Four Corners region until Thursday. Flash flood warnings have been issued for parts of northwestern New Mexico. Additionally, in Arizona, forecasters have issued flash flood warnings for central and northern parts of the state.
Nygren stated: "Conditions can change rapidly, and flowing water can be dangerous, even in places we know well. No destination is worth risking your life or the lives of others."
The three fatalities in the Navajo area occurred following similar flooding in the Grand Canyon a few weeks ago, where three hikers were swept away and dozens of others were rescued.
Read more: Kamala Harris Campaigns in Michigan with Abdul El-Sayed · Tragedy at Burning Man Festival: Three People Died
Source: abcnews.com
