August 22, 2006 -- More flooding in Hatch, N.M. is causing concern about another possible rise to the Rio Grande river levels. A surge could come from heavy rain and floodwaters from the community of Hatch, where residents were voluntarily evacuated Monday night.

For the second time in less than a week, the rain caused the Placitas arroyo to breach on the north side. The breach flooded fields and prompted hundreds of people to leave their homes for temporary shelter.

Residents like Brenda Torres arrived at Hatch High School with her family and a few of her belongings. Torres said, "It's scary, because we don't know what's going on."

Meantime, crews from a local irrigation district have been working overtime to repair and reinforce the banks of the arroyo.

Hatch resident Fermin Mejilla said, "I used to live by the arroyo, not anymore, because the apartments are damaged. I don't have a home right now. I'm staying with my parents."

Hatch resident Byron Adams said, "A lot of people have lost a lot of things, but people still have a lot of hope and faith. They're all working hard, trying to get everything back to normal.

As of Tuesday morning, the evacuations still remain voluntary in the Hatch area.

A flash flood watch was in effect for Dona Ana County overnight and into the morning.

Dona Ana County crews have closed Canal Road at N.M. 187 due to a developing sinkhole.

Governor Bill Richardson will be in Hatch Tuesday to survey damage.