Severe Flash Flooding Strikes Ruidoso, New Mexico
On Thursday, July 24, 2025, heavy rainfall swept through the mountain village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, leading to significant flash flooding. The deluge forced authorities to close multiple roads and prompted emergency responders to rescue at least five individuals trapped by fast-moving water.
The village, located in southern New Mexico and about three hours southeast of Albuquerque, has faced a challenging summer as thunderstorms have dumped excess rain onto already saturated ground. Previous wildfires in the area have devastated vegetation and trees on the surrounding mountains, exacerbating the risk of flooding and erosion.
Community Impact and Emergency Response
Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford confirmed that while the flooding was substantial, no fatalities or physical injuries were reported as of Thursday evening. Eyewitness accounts and videos shared on social media showcased dramatic scenes of muddy torrents sweeping away a mobile home and uprooting tall trees.
This incident follows a previous episode of flash flooding earlier in July, which resulted in three fatalities and necessitated numerous rescues. The local community is still in recovery from that tragedy.
Visual Evidence of the Flooding
Residents took to social media to post videos depicting the chaotic flow of floodwaters through creeks and streets. Many onlookers gathered on higher ground to observe the aftermath, while emergency services worked to manage road closures and safeguard the public.
Weather Threats Persist
The National Weather Service has been diligently issuing flash flood watches and warnings throughout the region, with conditions indicating an ongoing threat during the summer rainy season. On Thursday, they reported that the Rio Ruidoso had risen to about 12.5 feet, a concerning level attributed to flooding linked to burn scars from past wildfires.
Additionally, parts of northern New Mexico are included in the flood watches, particularly areas affected by the 2022 Calf Canyon Hermit’s Peak wildfires, reinforcing the serious concerns regarding water runoff and soil stability.
Flooding Summary
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Ruidoso, New Mexico |
| Date | July 24, 2025 |
| Rescues | At least 5 individuals rescued |
| Previous Flooding Incident | July 2025 – 3 fatalities |
| Flood Warning Status | Ongoing flash flood watches in effect |
As Ruidoso continues to manage the impact of this severe weather, both residents and authorities are bracing for more potential rain in the days ahead. Community safety remains a top priority as recovery efforts are mobilized, ensuring that no one is left behind in this natural disaster’s wake.
