Ruidoso, New Mexico was hit by a devastating flood on Tuesday, July 8 after monsoon rains. LiveMint reports that at least three people, including two children, have died. The Rio Ruidoso River broke records with a 20.24 foot water level and left dozens stranded in their homes and cars, homes swept away and roads underwater.
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1. Cause and effect: The areas that were burned by wildfires last year were hit by massive monsoon rains. Water couldn’t absorb into the fire-burnt soil and resulted to floods and landslides. In 30 minutes, the Rio Rudosso River rose 19 feet.
- 2. Missing and dead: Three fatalities have been confirmed, one man and two children (4 and 7 years old) who were swept away by the floodwaters. Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford said three are missing but it’s not clear if they are the same three or others.
- 3. Rescue: In Ruidoso, emergency crews rescued at least 85 people from fast moving water. According to Daniel Silva of New Mexico Department of Homeland Security, people were rescued from their homes and vehicles. The rescue was done by National Guard and local police.
- 4. Scary scene: A popular video on social media showed a whole house being carried away by the Rio Ruidoso’s strong current and slammed into trees. Local artist Caitlin Carpenter documented the scene from the safety of Downshift Brewing Company.
- 5. Infrastructure damage: The flood inundated bridges, closed roads and destroyed the western side of Ruidoso Downs racetrack. There are concerns about the horses there. There are also reports of house damage and gas leaks.
- 6. Emergency actions: Tuesday afternoon, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a flash flood warning and told people to seek higher ground. The community center of Ruidoso and the campus of Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso were opened as temporary shelters.
- 7. Previous Disasters: The South Fork and Salt fires last year hit Ruidoso and killed two people and 1,400 homes. The racetrack was also flooded in July 2024. Climate change is making these kind of disasters worse, experts say.
- 8. Government Response: During a radio broadcast, Mayor Crawford asked citizens to report missing people to a hotline. Governor of New Mexico has asked President Donald Trump for federal help.
- 9. Relief and Rehabilitation: Damage assessment started when the floodwaters receded. New Mexico Crisis and Access Line (1-855-662-7474) offers counseling services. The village’s website and social media are being updated.
- 10. Future Warning: NWS has issued a flood watch until 9pm Wednesday night. Residents are advised to stay alert and avoid flooded areas. Ruidoso is already hit by natural disasters and this is another big blow to the city.
