Flash flood emergency in New Mexico: homes swept away, residents urged to seek higher ground

A sudden and powerful flash flood hit the mountain village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, on Tuesday afternoon, leaving behind widespread damage and prompting urgent warnings from authorities. Shocking videos shared online show houses, trailers, and debris being carried away by raging floodwaters.

The National Weather Service (NWS) declared a flash flood emergency, the most serious alert of its kind, after heavy rains fell on wildfire burn scars in the area. Within just an hour, the Rio Ruidoso river swelled dramatically, with water levels reportedly reaching over 20 feet in some areas—potentially a record crest.

Rescue operations are underway, particularly at Gavilan Trailer Park, where multiple residents were trapped. Local officials confirmed that at least three people are currently missing, and several injuries have been reported, although details remain unclear.

Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford urged residents to stay indoors and avoid flooded areas. “If you’re safe where you are, stay there. This is a dangerous situation,” he said.

The Office of Emergency Management also warned people living near the river to evacuate immediately and avoid driving through floodwaters. “Do not underestimate the current. Just a few inches of moving water can carry a vehicle away,” officials said.

Images and videos shared by both residents and the National Weather Service show the extent of the destruction. One clip shows a house collapsing and being pulled downriver, while another captures debris smashing into a small bridge before submerging nearby roads. Gas leaks have also been reported as floodwaters damaged infrastructure across the area.

Dozens of roads have been closed, and cleanup efforts are already underway. The official Facebook page of the village has been posting regular updates and safety warnings as the situation unfolds.

The flooding was triggered by around an inch of rain falling over burn scars from last year’s wildfires—areas where vegetation had been destroyed, making the land more vulnerable to runoff and erosion.

As of now, a flash flood warning remains in effect for Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs, and Hollywood, New Mexico, until further notice.

Emergency services are continuing search and rescue efforts, and residents are being asked to stay informed, stay indoors if safe, and avoid all flood-affected areas.