RUIDOSO, N.M. – Monsoonal thunderstorms unleashed flash flooding across parts of New Mexico on Wednesday, leading to water rescues and triggering Flood Warnings in areas near wildfire burn scars. More storms are anticipated to hit the region starting Thursday afternoon.
Lincoln County, particularly around the village of Ruidoso, experienced significant impacts. Forecasters reported approximately an inch of rain falling, with an additional half-inch by Wednesday evening. This runoff quickly overwhelmed the Rio Ruidoso, spilling onto nearby roadways.
“This is a life-threatening situation,” the National Weather Service office in Albuquerque warned. “Heavy rainfall will cause extensive and severe flash flooding of creeks, streams and ditches in the South Fork Burn Scar. Severe debris flows can also be anticipated across roads. Roads and driveways may be washed away in places. If you encounter flood waters, climb to safety.”
Communities like Ruidoso Downs, Alto, Glencoe, and Hollywood were also being closely monitored for flooding impacts.
USGS camera along the Rio Ruidoso in Hollywood, New Mexico.
(USGS)
This latest flooding follows several days of wet weather that previously triggered Flash Flood Emergencies in Ruidoso over the past month. Tragically, on July 8, three people died in flash floods impacting the village. Then, on July 24, at least six water rescues were conducted when streams overflowed their banks.
Areas affected by wildfires are particularly prone to flooding. The burn scars reduce the soil’s ability to absorb water, significantly increasing runoff.
Ruidoso, New Mexico residents clean up and brace for more flooding.
More flash flooding possible Thursday
Forecasters expect slow-moving thunderstorms to develop again on Thursday afternoon. These storms could produce between a half-inch and an inch of rain, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 2 inches.
A Flash Flood Watch is in effect until 9 p.m. local time for multiple areas in New Mexico, including Ruidoso.
Shown on the map is the typical weather pattern that dominates during much of the North American monsoon season.
The Southwest monsoon season, from June 15 to September 30, typically brings moisture from the Pacific Ocean and Gulfs of California and Mexico. This pattern increases rain and thunderstorm activity across the Southwest U.S., including parts of New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, West Texas, and northwestern Mexico.
In response to the recent flooding, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has opened a local recovery center. Homeowners, renters, and businesses impacted by the flooding can apply for federal aid. Businesses may be eligible for low-interest loans up to $2 million, while homeowners can apply for loans up to $500,000.
“SBA’s Business Recovery Centers have consistently proven their value to business owners following a disaster,” said Chris Stallings, SBA associate administrator for Disaster Recovery and Resilience. “Business owners can visit these centers to meet face to face with specialists who will guide them through the disaster loan application process and connect them with resources to support their recovery.”
The deadline to submit applications for property damage is September 22, 2025, and for economic injury applications is April 22, 2026.
