Deadly Flash Floods Hit Ruidoso, New Mexico — 3 Dead, Dozens of Homes Destroyed
RUIDOSO, NEW MEXICO — July 9, 2025
A catastrophic flash flood in Ruidoso, New Mexico, claimed the lives of three people and left widespread destruction after intense monsoon rain overwhelmed the region on July 8. The flooding followed 2.5 to 3.5 inches of rainfall over areas severely damaged by the 2024 South Fork and Salt wildfires.
The Rio Ruidoso surged to 20.24 feet, breaking historical records and flooding neighborhoods within minutes. The New Mexico Department of Homeland Security confirmed the deaths of one adult male and two children (ages 4 and 7), all swept away by fast-moving water.
Emergency teams conducted over 85 swift-water rescues as homes, roads, and public infrastructure were destroyed or severely damaged. Video footage shows entire structures being lifted and carried downstream. At least 15 homes were completely destroyed, and dozens more remain uninhabitable. Key roads, including US Route 70 and Gavilan Canyon Road, were closed due to sinkholes, debris, and collapsed culverts.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency, releasing $750,000 in emergency funds to aid recovery efforts. The New Mexico National Guard, Public Works, and FEMA have deployed teams to assist with cleanup, repairs, and housing assessments.
Thousands in Lincoln County lost power and water. A boil-water advisory remains in effect due to contamination risk. Emergency shelters were established at the Ruidoso Community Center and Eastern New Mexico University–Ruidoso, with over 120 residents displaced.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and National Weather Service (NWS) attributed the flooding to rapid surface runoff on burn scars left by wildfires that destroyed more than 31,000 acres in 2024. The lack of vegetation created extreme flood conditions after the sudden rainfall.
The New Mexico Department of Transportation, Environment Department, and Army Corps of Engineers are evaluating infrastructure damage and environmental hazards. Additional storms are expected through July 10, and a flash flood watch remains active.
Residents are advised to avoid low-lying areas, stay away from rivers, and follow updates from official emergency sources. FEMA inspection teams will begin property assessments on July 10 for federal assistance eligibility.
