After the Fire: New Mexico's Battle with Post-Wildfire Floods

Three years after northern New Mexico's fierce wildfire, torrential floods continue to plague Victoria Lovato's ranch, illustrating the escalating threat of post-fire deluges across the Western United States. Experts warn that climate change is intensifying blazes, leaving swathes of barren land vulnerable to flash floods.

U.S. Geological Survey hydrologist Jason Kean highlights a growing concern as severely burned areas prone to flooding multiply, creating vast expanses of sensitive terrain. While some regions like Arizona's Coconino County have implemented flood mitigation features, many areas still lack the necessary funding and coordination for effective watershed restoration.

Residents of Mora County, among New Mexico's poorest, witness firsthand the life-threatening impacts of these floods. Despite federal efforts, significant restoration and prevention measures are required. Recovery initiatives struggle to keep pace with recurring disasters, fostering an urgent call for comprehensive solutions to avert future calamities.