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13h ago

Flash Flooding Strikes Ruidoso Again, Prompting Water Rescues and Evacuations

Vegetation stripped by last year’s wildfires amplified runoff from monsoon downpours.

Image
A damaged truck on the banks of the Rio Ruidoso in Ruidoso, New Mexico, on July 9, 2025, a day after major flooding washed away properties and RV's along the river.
Flooding along the Rio Ruidoso river at Hollywood at 14:00 MDT on July 24, 2025. Credit: USGS

Overview

  • At least five people were rescued and no new fatalities were reported after heavy monsoon rains swelled the Rio Ruidoso to roughly 12.5 feet.
  • The Lincoln County Office of Emergency Services issued urgent evacuation orders and opened shelters at the Ruidoso Community Center and ENMU.
  • Roads along several canyons, including Cedar Creek and Brady Canyon, were closed as debris flows washed out culverts and overturned trees.
  • Burn scars from the 2024 Calf Canyon Hermit’s Peak and other wildfires left slopes vulnerable to intense rainfall, exacerbating flash flood risk.
  • Lincoln County residents affected by July’s floods can apply for FEMA financial assistance under the federal disaster declarations.