Flash Floods Sweep Homes, Trigger Rescues in Ruidoso, New Mexico

Heavy monsoon rains triggered catastrophic flash flooding in Ruidoso, New Mexico, a mountain village severely affected by wildfires in 2024. The flooding caused at least one home to be swept away, multiple bridges to be submerged, and gas leaks, prompting numerous swift water rescues—over 85 according to emergency officials. The National Weather Service issued a flash flood emergency, urging residents to seek higher ground as the Rio Ruidoso rose rapidly to record levels. While no deaths have been reported, several people were injured and hospitalized, and three individuals were reported missing. Rescue operations involved local teams and National Guard units working to evacuate those trapped in homes and vehicles. The community remains vulnerable due to the recent burn scars, which reduce the land's ability to absorb rainfall, exacerbating flood risks.