🆘 What Happened
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Historic flash flood hit the Village of Ruidoso after intense monsoonal rains drenched burn scar areas from last year’s wildfires, causing the Rio Ruidoso to crest at a record ~20.24 feet—about 5 feet above the previous record.
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Rainfall exceeded 1.5–3.5 inches in just an hour, triggering a flash flood emergency and sparking over 85 swift-water rescues.
🙏 Human Toll
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At least three fatalities: one adult male (40–50 years), a 4‑year‑old girl, and a 7‑year‑old boy were swept downstream.
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50–85 people rescued, including those trapped in homes or vehicles.
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A house was visibly carried away in dramatic footage, symbolizing the force of the flood.
🚨 Emergency Response
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State of emergency declared by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to expedite resources and federal aid.
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National Guard and local emergency crews were mobilized for rescue and recovery .
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Shelters opened for displaced residents; residents were urged to stay alert until flood watches lift.
🌿 Why It Was So Severe
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The flood was exacerbated by burn scars from 2024's South Fork and Salt wildfires, which left the soil unable to absorb rainfall.
Monsoon moisture and rapid precipitation created a life-threatening scenario, with water rising nearly 19 feet in just half an hour.
🔭 What’s Next
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Search and rescue continues, with crews using debris detection to locate any missing individuals.
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Clean-up efforts and damage assessments are in progress; debris removal, road clearances, and home repairs underway.
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Flood watch remains active; residents told to avoid moving water and follow directions from NWS and local officials .
