Flash Floods Devastate Ruidoso, New Mexico — Grief and Rescue Efforts Stretch On

From Wildfire to Flood: Ruidoso Faces Another Disaster

Still recovering from last year’s wildfires, the mountain town of Ruidoso, New Mexico, now faces catastrophic flash flooding. On Tuesday, June 8, intense rains triggered floods that tore through homes and businesses, overwhelming a community already in distress.

Flash Flood Strikes with Brutal Force

Heavy monsoon storms brought chaos. Rising water destroyed structures, caused mudslides, and triggered gas leaks. Roads vanished beneath torrents. Videos online captured buildings swept away and rivers raging where calm streams once flowed.

Mayor: “One of the Worst We’ve Seen”

Mayor Lynn Crawford confirmed more than 30 swift-water rescues and noted that multiple bridges were underwater. “This is one of the worst events we’ve seen,” he said. “It’s hit us harder than we expected.”

A Grieving Community

Mayor Crawford offered heartfelt condolences:

The entire Village of Ruidoso extends our deepest sympathy. We stand united in our grief and in support of one another.”

Officials urged people in safe areas to stay put and asked the public to respect the privacy of grieving families.

Emergency Response and Support

Ruidoso is working closely with state agencies including:

• The New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator
• The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office
• Local emergency teams

Search and rescue efforts are ongoing. The Ruidoso Community Center (501 Sudderth Drive) is open as a shelter for displaced residents.