Emily Herr

By Emily Herr

The Scoop Digital Newspaper: July 2025

Ruidoso, N.M. (July 9, 2025) – A popular mountain village in southern New Mexico, Ruidoso, has been hit by catastrophic flash flooding, triggered by intense monsoon rains on Tuesday, July 8. The deluge, which followed recent wildfires that stripped the terrain of vegetation, has resulted in tragic loss of life, significant damage, and an ongoing search for missing individuals.

Tragic Loss of Life Confirmed

Officials have confirmed that at least three people have died as a result of the unprecedented floodwaters in Ruidoso. The victims include:

• An adult male (approximately 40-50 years old)
• A 4-year-old girl
• A 7-year-old boy

All three individuals were tragically swept downstream by the rushing waters. Out of respect for the grieving families, their identities have not been publicly released. Additionally, three other individuals were transported to a local hospital and are reported to be in stable condition.

Significant Damage and Swift Water Rescues

The intensity of the flooding was immense, with the Rio Ruidoso river swelling to a record-breaking 20 feet – five feet higher than its previous record. This rapid rise, which saw water levels leap nearly 19 feet in a mere half-hour at one gauge, overwhelmed the community.

Visuals from the area show the sheer power of the flood, with an entire house being swept downstream by the torrent. Preliminary assessments indicate that at least 35 to 50 homes were either damaged or completely lost in the flooding. Roads have been closed due to debris, and reports of mudslides and gas leaks from damaged homes have also emerged.

Emergency crews have been working tirelessly, conducting at least 85 swift water rescues, pulling people from trapped homes, cars, and even trees. The Ruidoso Fire Chief, Cade Hall, described the scene: “We had people in trees, we had people in the water, people just trapped in houses with water coming into them. You name it, we were having to address it.”

Ongoing Search for the Missing

While the immediate focus has shifted to recovery, authorities are still actively trying to track down at least one person who remains unaccounted for. Search and rescue operations are continuing as the water recedes and crews work to clear debris.

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed an emergency declaration, requesting immediate federal assistance to aid Ruidoso in its recovery efforts. Temporary shelters have been opened at the Ruidoso Community Center for displaced residents.

Wildfire Scars Worsen Flood Impact

The severity of this flash flood was exacerbated by the landscape’s vulnerability following last year’s South Fork and Salt wildfires. These fires, which occurred in the summer of 2024, scorched vast areas of forest, destroying an estimated 1,400 homes and structures and leaving behind burn scars. Burned terrain is highly susceptible to flash flooding because the soil becomes hydrophobic (repels water), preventing absorption and causing rain to run off rapidly. Officials noted that the water levels in this flood appeared even higher than those experienced last summer.

The devastating event in Ruidoso comes just days after catastrophic floods in Texas claimed over 100 lives and left more than 160 people missing, highlighting a broader pattern of intense weather systems impacting the American Southwest. Communities in New Mexico are united in sorrow and commitment to supporting one another through this difficult time.

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The Scoop Digital Newspaper
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