The recent relentless rains brought nearly 8.8cm (3.5in) of rainfall, overwhelming the Ruidoso River and leading to tragic consequences. Local officials confirmed that a man and two children were swept away by the rising waters. Kerry Gladden, a spokesperson for the village, revealed emergency crews are still conducting search and rescue operations while a hotline has been established for missing persons.
Rescue workers undertook over 50 swift water rescues as authorities urged residents to evacuate to higher locations. Reports indicate three people have received medical treatment following the disaster. Local artist Kaitlyn Carpenter’s footage showcased a house being carried off by floodwaters, while Mayor Lynn Crawford expressed concern regarding the number of lost homes, saying, “It got ugly really quick.”
The National Weather Service had previously cautioned about the increased flood risk due to "burn scars" from last year's wildfires, which left the soil in the area less absorbent. The region had experienced devastating wildfires in June 2024, leading to significant property loss and fatalities.
The New Mexico floods come on the heel of catastrophic flooding in Texas, where the death toll has reached 109, with many still unaccounted for, shedding light on the severe consequences of climate change on extreme weather events.
Rescue workers undertook over 50 swift water rescues as authorities urged residents to evacuate to higher locations. Reports indicate three people have received medical treatment following the disaster. Local artist Kaitlyn Carpenter’s footage showcased a house being carried off by floodwaters, while Mayor Lynn Crawford expressed concern regarding the number of lost homes, saying, “It got ugly really quick.”
The National Weather Service had previously cautioned about the increased flood risk due to "burn scars" from last year's wildfires, which left the soil in the area less absorbent. The region had experienced devastating wildfires in June 2024, leading to significant property loss and fatalities.
The New Mexico floods come on the heel of catastrophic flooding in Texas, where the death toll has reached 109, with many still unaccounted for, shedding light on the severe consequences of climate change on extreme weather events.
