Flash Floods Claim Three Lives in Ruidoso, New Mexico

At least three people, including two children, were killed by flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall in Ruidoso, New Mexico. The floods occurred just a year after the village and its surrounding areas were devastated by two wildfires. The victims were caught in the rushing floodwaters during the catastrophic event on Tuesday evening. The fatalities included a man aged between 40-50, a 4-year-old girl, and a 7-year-old boy. Several homes were destroyed, and dozens of people had to be rescued by swift water rescue crews. Three individuals are still missing. Water levels in the Rio Ruidoso river rose rapidly to a record level of 20 feet within minutes. Most of the water receded by Tuesday night, but first responders continued to search for missing individuals. New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed an emergency declaration to bring federal response teams and repair resources to the area.

In her statement, Lujan Grisham emphasized the need for immediate action to support the resilient community of Ruidoso. The area had previously experienced devastating wildfires and flooding last summer. The wildfires burned around 17,569 acres and 7,939 acres, leading to the destruction of numerous homes and structures. The flash flooding was exacerbated by heavy rains falling on burn scar areas from the previous year's fires, creating dangerous conditions throughout the village.

According to the source: Forbes.