Torrential monsoon rains triggered a historic flash flood in the mountain resort town of Ruidoso on Tuesday afternoon. Floodwaters surged nearly 20–20.2 feet, devastating neighborhoods, sweeping away entire houses, and leaving families scrambling for their lives.
Areas stripped bare by last year’s South Fork and Salt wildfires were unable to absorb rainfall, sending up to 3 inches of water racing downhill. Within minutes, the Rio Ruidoso creek ascended over major flood stage (18–20 ft) — a value exceeding any previously recorded levels, according to People.
“The Rio Ruidoso at Hollywood reached a provisional crest of 20.24 feet this afternoon while significant flash flooding was occurring . If this is confirmed, it would be a record high crest (compared to last year’s crest of 15.86 feet on July 20th),” NWS Albuquerque wrote on X.
The Rio Ruidoso at Hollywood reached a provisional crest of 20.24 feet this afternoon while significant flash flooding was occurring . If this is confirmed, it would be a record high crest (compared to last year’s crest of 15.86 feet on July 20th). #NMwx pic.twitter.com/QHtTrXLf3H
— NWS Albuquerque (@NWSAlbuquerque) July 8, 2025
Flash Flood Warning continues for Ruidoso NM, Ruidoso Downs NM and Hollywood NM until 7:15 PM MDT pic.twitter.com/9TyPucjqKD
— NWS Albuquerque (@NWSAlbuquerque) July 8, 2025
Video footage shows swift, brown torrents ripping through streets, carrying whole homes and vehicles downstream as local authorities scramble to respond.
Despite initial reports of no fatalities, Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford later confirmed at least three deaths — including two children — after bodies were recovered downstream.
According to the press release:
The Village of Ruidoso confirms that three people have tragically lost their lives as a result of the historic flash flooding that swept through the community on July 8, 2025. The victims were swept downstream by the unprecedented floodwaters that struck the area.
The fatalities include:
- 40-50-year-old male
- 4-year-old female
- 7-year-old male
All three individuals were caught in the rushing floodwaters and carried downstream during the catastrophic flooding event that saw the Rio Ruidoso rise to a record-breaking 20 feet – five feet higher than the previous record.
“Our hearts are broken for the families who have lost their loved ones in this terrible tragedy,” said Mayor Lynn Crawford. “The entire Village of Ruidoso extends our deepest sympathy and compassion to these grieving families during this unimaginably difficult time. We are united in our sorrow and our commitment to supporting one another as we face this devastating loss together.”
The flash flooding occurred Tuesday afternoon when heavy monsoonal rains fell on burn scar areas from last year’s South Fork and Salt fires, creating dangerous conditions that led to rapid water rise throughout the village. Emergency crews conducted 50-60 swift-water rescues during the event.
The Village of Ruidoso is working closely with the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and other agencies as the investigation continues.
Search and rescue operations are still underway. The Ruidoso Community Center at 501 Sudderth Drive remains open as a temporary shelter for displaced residents.
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