Richardson declares disaster in eight counties

Gov. Bill Richardson has declared a state of disaster in eight counties, including Doña Ana, which will free up funds to aid repair efforts.

The order also applies to Grant, Hidalgo, Sandoval, San Miguel, Sierra, Socorro and Valencia counties.

“This disaster declaration frees up necessary money to help rebuild as quickly as possible,” Richardson said. “The recent flooding has been widespread and devastating. It is imperative that we respond quickly and help these counties, cities and towns get back on their feet.”

New Mexico has been deluged with heavy rain and thunderstorms during the past week, causing communities and cities to incur damage to roads, canals, and other public infrastructure.

The declaration makes all affected counties eligible for reimbursement at a rate of 75 percent for expenses such as overtime for public safety personnel, road, water line, and sewer repairs, and other public assistance needs created by the storms.