Low Risk New Mexico  ·  Tornado / Flash Flooding

Lea County NM

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

5/ 10
Threat Score
Population
70
Area
4,393
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
6
federally declared

Lea County NM in New Mexico faces tornado / flash flooding risk across its 4,393 square mile area. Hobbs in the Permian Basin serves this southeast New Mexico oil county near Texas. Lea serves as the county seat and regional emergency coordination hub.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 5 / 10    Low Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Drought
FEMA Flood Zone Low
Federally Declared Disasters 6
Last Major Event 2019 Tornado
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (575) 396-8571
Emergency Shelters 2 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes State and US highways

// County Profile

County Lea County NM
State New Mexico (NM)
Population 70
Area 4,393 sq miles
FEMA Region Low

// Major Cities

Hobbs NM

// Cities in This County

// Other New Mexico Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

WIPP Carlsbad NM Nuclear Waste Repository
Nuclear Power Plant  ·  Carlsbad, NM  ·  US Department of Energy  ·  5-mi risk zone
9/10 Critical

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.