Tragic flash flooding struck the town of Ruidoso, New Mexico, once again on Tuesday, as heavy rains inundated the area still recovering from recent wildfires.
Reports of damage revealed that floodwaters reached numerous homes and several roads were submerged in water throughout Ruidoso.
Water rescues were in progress across the city on Tuesday evening as the Rio Ruidoso surged to over 20 feet – surpassing the major flood stage at 15 feet, setting a potential record crest, according to the NWS.
Images shared by NWS Albuquerque depicted the swift rise of the Rio Ruidoso in the Hollywood neighborhood of Ruidoso as the flood surge moved through the river.
“A DANGEROUS situation is unfolding in RUIDOSO!” NWS Albuquerque warned on Tuesday afternoon. “A FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY remains in effect! Seek HIGHER GROUND NOW! Do NOT attempt to drive through the floodwaters. The current will carry away your vehicle!”
Storm reports from the National Weather Service office in Albuquerque painted a grim picture of the flash flood’s impacts.
Witnesses recounted a home being swept away near a brewery in Ruidoso, along with reports of a man and two children being washed away in Hollywood. Another account mentioned a car being carried off by flood waters.
Many individuals were reportedly trapped, leading to multiple water rescues required at Galivan Trailer Park.
A man and two children were also stranded in a home near Ruidoso Downs. An elderly woman in the Alto neighborhood was also in need of rescue.
As of now, the fate of those swept away or trapped remains unknown. City emergency officials have set up a hotline for residents to report any missing family members due to the floods.
Between 1.5 and 2.5 inches of rain fell within a short period, with the possibility of another half-inch by late evening.
