The village of Ruidoso has been thrust into chaos as severe rainfall triggered life-threatening flash floods, prompting the National Weather Service to declare an emergency until 6 p.m. Tuesday. The situation has necessitated urgent evacuations from several neighborhoods and mobilized the New Mexico National Guard into action.
Residents in Cedar Creek, Upper Canyon, Brady Canyon, Cherokee Mobile Village, Paradise Canyon, and areas near Rio Ruidoso have been ordered to evacuate immediately. Authorities stressed the gravity of the situation, urging citizens not to delay and move to higher ground without attempting to salvage belongings.
In response to the escalating crisis, the White Mountain Relief Center at 687 Hull Road has been established as a shelter for those displaced by the floods. Essential infrastructure has been severely impacted, with all bridge crossings in Ruidoso shuttered due to inundation, including critical points such as Paradise Canyon, Gavilan Canyon Road, Brady Canyon, and others.
Further compounding the emergency, reports have surfaced of multiple gas leaks across the village, believed to be a direct consequence of the flooding. Village officials issued a stark warning via social media, advising residents to steer clear of any gas odors and promptly report incidents to Zia Natural Gas.
The deluge has also cast a shadow over major thoroughfares including Highway 48, Highway 70, Main Road, Paradise Canyon Road, and Gavilan Canyon Road, raising concerns about extended impact and accessibility.
As emergency responders and local authorities work tirelessly to manage the crisis, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and heed evacuation orders for their safety. The unfolding situation in Ruidoso serves as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictable force and the community’s resilience in the face of adversity.