Ruidoso Faces Historic Flash Floods, Devastating Homes & Liv
Severe flash floods devastate Ruidoso, causing destruction, displacing residents, and prompting emergency rescue operations and precautions.
Severe Flash Floods Devastate Ruidoso, Sweeping Away Homes and Causing Chaos
RUIDOSO, N.M. — Flash floods unleashed significant destruction in the mountain town of Ruidoso on Tuesday afternoon, sending debris and even a house downstream as the community faced yet another challenge. The flooding continues to impact residents and infrastructure, prompting rescue operations and emergency precautions.
Historic Flooding Reaches New Heights
According to the National Weather Service, the Rio Ruidoso at Hollywood hit a provisional crest of 20.24 feet on Friday afternoon, marking historic levels. Comparatively, the devastating flooding caused by Hurricane Dolly in 2008 crested at 12 feet, while last year’s floods peaked at 15 feet. This unprecedented rise highlights the severity of the current situation.
Village Resources for Flood Victims
In response to the disaster, village officials are directing residents toward critical resources:
- Emergency Family Contact: Residents with missing family members due to the flooding are urged to call the Ruidoso Emergency Operations Call Center at (575) 637-0398.
- Temporary Refuge: The Ruidoso Community Center at 501 Sudderth Drive is open for those in need of shelter.
- Assistance with Pets: The Humane Society of Lincoln County is helping with lost animals. Residents can call (575) 257-9841 to report missing pets.
Moreover, residents are encouraged to complete a village survey to document property damage for assessment and relief purposes.
Ongoing Challenges Due to Flooding
The flooding challenges have compounded due to last year’s wildfires, which left burn scars that intensify flash flood risks. One particular area of concern is the Blue 2 Burn Scar, where excessive rainfall is causing debris flows that include rocks, mud, and vegetation. These flows threaten multiple properties, highways, bridges, and recreational areas such as Bonito Lake.
Flash Flood Warning for Ruidoso
The National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Warning for south-central Lincoln County, including the Blue 2 Burn Scar. Doppler radar detected thunderstorms producing heavy rain over the area, with rainfall amounts ranging from 0.25 to 1 inch. The warning detailed ongoing life-threatening flash flooding risks, particularly near the Rio Bonito and Upper Eagle Creek.
Key impact zones include:
- Forest Service Road 107
- Bonito Lake
- Rio Bonito bridges on Highways 37 and 48
- Areas downstream of Highway 48
- Upper Eagle Creek Road to Ski Run Road
The floods are expected to bring debris flows that threaten homes and infrastructure in these regions.
Infrastructure Damage and Recovery Efforts
The Ruidoso Downs Racetrack and Casino, which recently installed new piping and a retention pond, was once again inundated by floodwaters. Viewer video shared with KOB 4 depicted the flooded race track, underscoring the scale of damage.
Further compounding the disaster, the village is addressing a gas leak in the River Trail area. Zia Gas is currently working to resolve the issue, according to updates provided by village officials.
Emergency Precautions and Rescue Operations
Both the National Weather Service and Lincoln County Fire Services have reported multiple rescue operations as floodwaters swept through the town. Residents are urged to stay vigilant, avoid flood-prone areas, and adhere to warnings from local authorities to ensure their safety.
This is an unfolding situation, and crews are actively responding to the ongoing emergency. Updates will continue to be shared as more information becomes available.