Acting Gov. Morales signs executive orders for flood response
Statewide action totals $3.75 million
SANTA FE – Acting Governor Howie Morales today signed five executive orders declaring a state of emergency due to flooding across New Mexico, making up to $3.75 million available to the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) for response and recovery.
“Communities across New Mexico need help staving off these torrential floodwaters, and they need it now,” said Lt. Gov. Howie Morales. “The State of New Mexico stands with every county, city and village working around the clock to keep their neighbors safe, and we are bringing every resource to the effort.”
Heavy rainfall has caused flooding in multiple areas of the state, damaging public infrastructure, disrupting transportation routes, and threatening homes and businesses. With more rain in the forecast and local emergency agencies already committing substantial resources, the orders make state resources available to communities in which the need exceeds local capacity.
Executive Orders 2026-073 through 2026-077 each direct the Department of Finance and Administration to make $750,000 available to DHSEM for a total $3.75 million. The funds may be used for resources and services needed to minimize physical or economic harm, including temporary lodging, sheltering, health care, food and transportation.
The orders also direct the Adjutant General to deploy the New Mexico National Guard as needed to support civil authorities.
Local governments seeking state financial assistance must demonstrate that the cost of their response exceeds available resources. Requests are coordinated through DHSEM.
Residents should follow instructions from local officials, evacuate immediately if told to do so, and never drive, walk, or swim through floodwaters. Find more information about flood safety on the DHSEM website.
Lt. Gov. Morales signed the orders in his official capacity because Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham is traveling out of state. The executive orders are available here.