Tuesday’s heavy rainfall in New Mexico pushed the Rio Ruidoso River to record height and caused severe flash floods in Ruidoso (population 8 000), resulting in at least 3 fatalities. The fatalities included a man in his 40s or 50s, a 4-year-old girl, and a 7-year-old boy.
Village officials stated that the flash flooding occurred on the afternoon of July 8 when heavy monsoonal rainfall fell on burn scar areas from the 2024 South Fork and Salt fires, leading to rapid water rise throughout the village.
The Rio Ruidoso river crested at 6.17 m (20.24 feet) at Hollywood. If confirmed, this provisional measurement would surpass the previous record of 4.83 m (15.86 feet) set on July 20, 2024.
The floods have caused widespread damage throughout the village sweeping away multiple homes and businesses in the area.
Emergency crews performed at least 85 swift water rescues in the Ruidoso area, including rescues of individuals trapped in homes and vehicles, according to Danielle Silva of the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Flash Flood Emergency for the area.
“A DANGEROUS situation is unfolding in RUIDOSO! A FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY remains in effect! Seek HIGHER GROUND NOW! Do NOT attempt to drive through the floodwaters. The current will carry away your vehicle!” said the NWS
Ruidoso Mayor Lynn D. Crawford stated during a radio address on July 8 that the flooding was more severe than expected.
Crawford added that some individuals were taken to the hospital, though the exact number was not immediately available. He urged residents to contact emergency services if family members or neighbors were unaccounted for.
