Severe flooding in Ruidoso leads to significant property damage.
The village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, experienced devastating flash flooding due to a significant downpour. Key areas were heavily impacted, with rising waters and widespread destruction. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries reported, thanks to prompt local emergency response. Hundreds of homes were destroyed, and many families are now facing loss and despair. Federal aid has been approved to assist the affected community in recovering from this disaster as residents display their resilience in the face of adversity.
On July 17, the picturesque village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, faced the wrath of Mother Nature as a **significant downpour** caused **catastrophic flooding** across the region. Those living near **Gavilan Canyon**, **White Mountain Drive**, and **Highway 70** were particularly hard hit, with rising waters leaving many in shock.
Fortunately, the quick response from local authorities has been commendable. With no reported injuries or fatalities linked to the flooding, officials breathed a sigh of relief. However, they did handle a handful of rescues, including one person who needed assistance after their truck became stranded along Highway 70. Another call came through from the Cherokee Village trailer park, but the resident was confirmed safe and able to stay put.
Emergency manager Eric Queller noted that the **intense rainfall** spanned just five minutes, delivering between a **quarter inch to half an inch** of rain. Things could have been much worse had the storm lasted longer. Based on observed rainfall rates, there was a possibility of **up to six inches** of rain falling within an hour. Thankfully, Ruidoso managed to escape the worst of it this time.
As quick as the storm hit, the community felt the immediate repercussions. Emergency managers received **reports of flooding and impacts** within just an hour, which included **three swiftwater rescues** and numerous road closures. The local **Rio Ruidoso** surged to an unprecedented **20 feet**, soaring to **five times higher** than its previous records. It’s a sight that no resident would ever want to witness.
The aftermath has been devastating; many families have faced the heartbreaking reality of losing their homes and personal belongings. According to estimates, **hundreds of homes** have been destroyed as a direct result of the flooding, leaving families in despair as they come to terms with the destruction. Some homes were reported as so badly damaged that they were beyond repair.
Local business owners are also picking through the wreckage, attempting to salvage what they can while seeking federal assistance to help with rebuilding efforts. The ripple effects of the disaster have touched every corner of the community. Residents have been actively urged to secure **federal aid** for any needed assistance, whether for repairs or replacement of their lost homes.
In a positive turn of events, an **emergency declaration** was approved by President Trump, which enables the **Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)** to assist areas impacted by severe storms and flooding. This declaration was initiated following destructive weather that began on June 23, 2025. This aid will be invaluable for those trying to recover from both the recent floods and the wildfires that wreaked havoc in the area last summer.
Despite overwhelming destruction, the spirit of resilience shone brightly among Ruidoso’s residents. While the recovery efforts continue amidst ongoing flood risks, community members are gearing up to support one another, showcasing the strong ties that knit this village together.
A significant downpour occurring on July 17 resulted in severe flash flooding across various parts of Ruidoso, with rainfall rates leading to rapid water rise.
Thankfully, no injuries or fatalities were reported as a result of the flooding, although there were some rescues carried out by local authorities.
Estimates suggest that hundreds of homes have been destroyed due to the flooding, with many families experiencing significant loss.
Yes, an emergency declaration was approved, allowing federal assistance from FEMA for both repairs and individual aid for those impacted by the floods.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Event | July 17, 2025 |
| Rainfall Amount | Up to 0.5 inches in a 5-minute storm |
| Highest Rio Ruidoso Level | 20 feet |
| Reported Rescues | 3 swiftwater rescues |
| Estimated Home Losses | Hundreds of homes destroyed |
| Federal Aid Status | Emergency declaration approved |
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