Tragic Flash Floods Claim Lives in New Mexico

The village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, has been struck by catastrophic flash flooding that has left at least three individuals dead. Emergency services are engaged in ongoing rescue operations in the aftermath of intense rainfall, with fears of further disasters in the region.

At least three people have tragically died in Ruidoso, New Mexico, due to severe flash flooding caused by heavy rainfall. The area experienced up to 8.8 cm (3.5 inches) of rain, causing the Ruidoso River to overflow its banks. Despite the floodwaters now receding, the impact has been severe. Among the deceased are a man and two children who were reportedly swept downstream, according to local officials on Tuesday evening.

Kerry Gladden, a spokesperson for the village of Ruidoso, informed CBS that search and rescue teams are actively deployed within the area, and a hotline has been established to assist families seeking information about missing individuals. Local emergency crews carried out over 50 swift water rescues, urging residents to seek higher ground as the threat of flooding remained.

During an interview with local media, Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford described the situation as rapidly deteriorating, stating, "It got ugly really quick." Reports indicate that at least one home was caught in the torrent and swept away, and the overall damage assessments are still underway.

Compounding the risk, the National Weather Service (NWS) had previously warned that two burn scars from wildfires would increase the likelihood of flash flooding, as the soil left charred from last year’s wildfires in the region is less able to absorb water. Southern New Mexico faced significant wildfires in June 2024, leading to the evacuation of Ruidoso and substantial damage to land and property.

In a looming disaster follow-up, news of New Mexico's flash floods emerged shortly after Texas Governor Greg Abbott reported on last week’s flash floods in Texas, where the death toll has reached 109, with 161 individuals still unaccounted for. The instances in both states highlight the urgent need for a focus on the impacts of climate change on extreme weather events.