Heavy monsoon rains triggered flash flooding in the mountain village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, on July 25, 2024, leading to dramatic rescues and significant destruction. Emergency responders carried out at least **85 swift water rescues**, saving individuals trapped in their homes and vehicles as floodwaters surged rapidly.
Danielle Silva, a spokesperson for the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, reported that no injuries or fatalities had been confirmed. However, she emphasized that the full extent of the damage would only be known once floodwaters recede. Residents were urged to seek higher ground as the Rio Ruidoso rose nearly **19 feet** in minutes, exacerbated by recent wildfires that stripped the area of vegetation and increased vulnerability to flooding.
Significant Impact on the Community
The National Weather Service issued flood warnings for the area, where the surge of the Rio Ruidoso swiftly overflowed its banks, flooding nearby forests. Video footage from a weather service flood gauge captured the river’s powerful flow, compelling authorities to close streets and bridges to ensure public safety.
Kaitlyn Carpenter, a local artist, witnessed the chaos firsthand while seeking refuge from the storm at Downshift Brewing Company. Alongside approximately **50 others**, Carpenter recorded the debris-filled river when she spotted a house, identifiable by its distinctive turquoise door, float by. The house belonged to a close friend’s family, who fortunately were not at home. “Seeing it come down the river was just pretty heartbreaking,” Carpenter remarked, reflecting on her memories spent in that house.
Historical Context and Current Challenges
Two National Guard rescue teams, already stationed in the region prior to the flooding, were joined by additional units as the situation escalated. The area has faced increased flood risks since the summer of **2024**, when devastating wildfires, known as the **South Fork and Salt fires**, destroyed approximately **1,400 homes and structures**. Silva noted that water levels appeared higher than during last year’s flooding, with significant amounts flowing into previously unaffected areas.
Matt DeMaria, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, explained that storms developed over the fire-scarred terrain, preventing the ground from absorbing rainfall effectively. Preliminary measurements indicated that the Rio Ruidoso crested at **20 feet** above its normal level, which could set a record if confirmed. By Tuesday evening, the river began to recede, providing some relief.
In response to the flooding, three shelters were established in Ruidoso, accommodating residents unable to return to their homes. The conditions evoked painful memories for Carpenter, whose art studio was lost during last year’s flooding. As the river rumbled and trees crashed into the water, she described the atmosphere as “pretty terrifying.”
Cory State, an employee at Downshift Brewing Company, witnessed the influx of residents seeking shelter amid the storm. He remarked that the sight of the floating house was “just one of the many devastating things about today,” highlighting the community’s distress and resilience amid the crisis.
