New Mexico National Guard rescues 12 people during Ruidoso flash flooding

RUIDOSO, N.M. — The New Mexico National Guard on Sunday said it rescued at least a dozen people and two dogs during Saturday’s flooding in Ruidoso. Photos and videos posted by residents on social media showed water over roadways and damaged homes in the area.

The Village of Ruidoso said on Saturday evening the White Mountain Relief Center at 687 Hull Road was open for anyone who has been displaced by the flash flooding.

“They have shelter and food,” the village stated.

In a social media post, the New Mexico National Guard described Saturday’s flooding as “intense.”

“Ruidoso can’t seem to catch a break,” the New Mexico Nation Guard said.

The following roads had closures due to flooding as of late Saturday night:

• Paradise Canyon (residents only)
• Main Road (residents only)
• Cree Meadows Drive at Wiley

Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford was expected to give an update Sunday morning.

The flash flood comes just after the mountain community was devasted by wildfires in June that killed two people. The South Fork Fire was discovered to be caused by a lightning strike, authorities said. However, the FBI is still looking for information about what caused the Salt Fire. The fires burned more than 25,000 acres combined.

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