Summary
At least three people have died in Ruidoso, New Mexico, due to flash flooding caused by heavy rain. Emergency crews conducted multiple rescues, and officials are still assessing the situation.
Key Facts
- Heavy rain, about 3.5 inches, caused the Ruidoso river to rise to a historic level.
- Three people, including a man and two children, died after being swept away by the floodwaters.
- Emergency crews performed at least 50 rescues, urging residents to move to higher ground.
- A hotline is available for people looking for missing family members.
- Three individuals were treated for injuries at the local hospital.
- Footage shows at least one house being destroyed by the floodwaters.
- The National Weather Service had warned that areas with 'burn scars' from past wildfires are at high risk for flash flooding because the soil repels water.
- Wildfires in June 2024 previously burned a large area around Ruidoso, increasing the risk of flooding.
