While national attention has been focused on the floods in Texas, a man and two children were killed in a devastating flash flood that tore through the Village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, on Tuesday, marking what local officials called an unprecedented natural disaster. More than 50 other residents were rescued by emergency crews as the floodwaters overwhelmed the small mountain community.
At a Glance
- A man and two children were swept away and killed in a flash flood in Ruidoso, New Mexico.
- More than 50 others were rescued by first responders amid catastrophic conditions.
- The Rio Ruidoso surged to 20 feet — five feet higher than its previous record.
- Village officials called the event “unprecedented,” and the mayor offered condolences to the victims’ families.
River Surges Past Historic Highs
The flood was triggered by torrential rainfall that caused the Rio Ruidoso to swell rapidly, rising to a record 20 feet — five feet higher than the village’s previous flood benchmark. According to a statement from village officials, the victims were “swept downstream by the unprecedented floodwaters that struck.”
The force of the floodwaters uprooted trees, destroyed structures, and cut off access to key roads. Rescuers worked throughout the night to reach trapped residents.
Watch a report: Deadly flooding devastates New Mexico mountain village.
Mayor Issues Statement of Mourning
“Our hearts are broken for the families who have lost their loved ones in this terrible tragedy,” said Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford in a public statement. He praised the work of emergency crews while urging the community to remain alert as additional rainfall is forecast later in the week.
Community Faces Long Recovery
The Village of Ruidoso, known for its scenic mountain setting and tourism-driven economy, now faces a massive recovery operation. Officials are assessing damage to public infrastructure, and disaster relief teams are being deployed to assist displaced residents.
State emergency services have been activated, and the National Weather Service has warned of continued flood risk throughout the region.
