Dam break emergency declared northwest of Hatch in Doña Ana County

The National Weather Service issued a flash flood emergency Tuesday afternoon for Doña Ana County as the McLeod Dam, located northwest of Hatch, faced imminent failure from heavy rains, according to KVIA.

Dam operators reported the potential for catastrophic failure, warning of life-threatening conditions in areas downstream from the structure. The emergency alert directed anyone in low-lying areas below the dam to move to higher ground immediately.

The flash flood warning was in effect until 4:45 p.m., according to the emergency notice. Residents in the path of potential floodwaters were instructed to seek higher elevation as a precaution against the dam's possible breach.

The McLeod Dam serves the Hatch area in northwestern Doña Ana County.