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NEWCOMB, N.M. – Tragedy struck early Wednesday on the Navajo Nation as floodwaters claimed the lives of three individuals, including a child, officials confirmed.
Shortly after midnight, tribal police received reports of people being swept away near Newcomb, a community in northwestern New Mexico. The incident came on the heels of a day marked by heavy rainfall that caused significant flooding on roads and surrounding areas. Additional rain fell overnight, exacerbating the hazardous conditions.
Search teams responded promptly and recovered the bodies of two adults and one child. Authorities have not yet released further details, noting that the circumstances of the drownings remain under investigation.
Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren expressed his condolences to the grieving families and extended gratitude to the first responders who worked tirelessly through challenging and dangerous conditions during the search efforts.
“To the family, relatives, and loved ones who are grieving today, we offer our deepest condolences,” Nygren stated in a social media message. “We pray that you are surrounded by strength, comfort, and the love of your family and community in the difficult days ahead.”
The National Weather Service in Albuquerque had issued a special briefing on Tuesday, warning of widespread thunderstorms expected across the region in the coming days. On Wednesday, officials reiterated these warnings, highlighting that moisture levels were approaching near-record highs for mid-September.
Excessive rainfall was forecast through Thursday across the Four Corners area, which includes New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado. Flash flood warnings were active for parts of northwestern New Mexico, while much of central and northern Arizona remained under a flash flood watch.
President Nygren urged residents to remain vigilant. “Conditions can change quickly, and moving water can be dangerous-even in places we know well,” he said. “No destination is worth risking your life or the lives of those traveling with you.”
This recent loss comes just weeks after severe flooding near the Grand Canyon resulted in three hikers being swept away and numerous others rescued after intense rains caused torrents in Bright Angel Creek.