Tragic Incident: 3 Lives Lost, Including 2 Young Children, in New Mexico Flooding, as Per Reported by Local Authorities
A catastrophic flash flood hit the Village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, on Tuesday afternoon, leaving at least three lives lost and numerous residents displaced. The disaster was triggered by heavy monsoonal rains that fell on burn scar areas from last year's South Fork and Salt fires, creating a hazardous environment for rapid water rise throughout the village.
The Rio Ruidoso River surged to an unprecedented 20 feet, breaking the previous record of 15.86 feet set in July 2024 [2][3]. The floodwaters swept away homes, bridges, and left a trail of destruction in their wake.
In an effort to alert residents and visitors, the National Weather Service issued a flash flooding emergency declaration for the area. Social media and local news outlets played a crucial role in disseminating warnings and updates, with the NWS repeatedly urging people to seek higher ground immediately [1][2]. Videos and images shared on social media also helped raise awareness of the rapidly worsening situation [3].
Emergency crews were quick to respond, rescuing over 65 individuals, 3 of whom were transported to the hospital for treatment, all of whom are currently in stable condition [2]. The village's mayor acknowledged the severe impact, mentioning breached bridges and lost homes, and expressed concern for missing individuals [3].
The tragic event claimed the lives of a man in his 40s or 50s, a 4-year-old girl, and a 7-year-old boy. The identities of the adult male who died and the children have yet to be officially confirmed [1]. A Fort Bliss soldier and his family, who were camping in the area, were also caught in the flood. The soldier and his spouse sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment at a local hospital in Texas [4].
Officials are in "close contact" with state officials and have already requested federal disaster assistance [5]. Another flood watch is in effect for Wednesday afternoon in the area, with a chance for 1-inch per hour rainfall rates and isolated downpours, posing a risk for flash flooding [6].
To better prepare for such events, officials urge citizens not to rely on one emergency alert system, stating "Layers save lives" [7]. The multi-alert system in Ruidoso includes a traditional siren, door-to-door knocking, and opt-in notifications for residents to receive alerts on their phones [8].
Authorities are currently conducting a full damage assessment, but it is expected to take several days to complete [9]. Since the South Fork Fire in June 2024, multiple flash flooding events have occurred in the same region, with Ruidoso suffering serious flash flooding as recently as June 26 [10]. The highest measured rainfall was 3.29 inches on the southwest side of the South Fork burn scar [11].
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event, our thoughts and prayers are with those affected. For those with information on missing individuals, the missing persons hotline is 575-637-0328 [12].
Food trucks were set up in the evacuation centers to provide nourishment for the displaced residents. The local news stations continued to cover the general-news, including the crime-and-justice aspect, such as the search for looters taking advantage of the chaos. Meanwhile, meteorologists forecasted potential accidents due to the weather conditions, advising caution on the roads.
