Just days after devastating flash floods killed more than 100 people in Texas, Ruidoso, a small village in New Mexico, is now battling its own flood crisis.
Social media videos showed alarming scenes of destruction. In one viral clip, an entire house was seen getting swept away by strong floodwaters.
Flash Flood New Mexico: Massive Flash flood emergency with a 20 foot flood wave, debris flow and homes floating down the Rio Ruidoso River!
— John Cremeans (@JohnCremeansX) July 8, 2025
Officials report the Rio Ruidoso River rose 20 feet in 30 minutes.
This is a developing story. pic.twitter.com/3rP5SOdROM
Within minutes, the Rio Ruidoso river surged to a height of 20.24 feet (6.1 meters)—far above its normal level. According to CBS News, this water level was “extremely above” the river’s daily average.
No Casualties in Ruidoso, But Rescue Efforts Underway
So far, officials have reported no injuries or deaths in Ruidoso. However, dozens of residents became trapped in certain areas due to the sudden floods. Emergency teams carried out at least 85 swift water rescues, according to AP. Authorities urged people to move to higher ground for safety.
A viral video posted by Kaitlyn Carpenter, an artist from the town, showed a house floating away in the flooded river. She revealed that the house belonged to “the family of one of her best friends.” Carpenter was among the 50 people who had taken shelter at a riverside company office during the storm.
Ruidoso Was Still Recovering From Wildfires
Ruidoso is a small town located about 184 miles (296 kilometers) south of Albuquerque. It was also one of the areas affected by severe wildfires in 2024. While still recovering from the fire damage, it now faces this fresh disaster.
NBC reported that a flash flood warning remained in place for Ruidoso until Tuesday night, with officials monitoring the situation closely.
Texas Flood Disaster Continues: Over 100 Dead, 160 Missing
Meanwhile, in Texas, flood recovery efforts are ongoing. The state has already confirmed at least 109 deaths due to the recent flash floods. As of now, about 160 people are still missing.
Governor Greg Abbott shared the latest numbers and said, “Just in the Kerr County area alone, there are 161 people who are known to be missing.” He also warned that “hopes of finding survivors were fading.”
Most deaths occurred in Kerr County, where 94 people lost their lives.
President Trump to Visit Texas
In response to the disaster, US President Donald Trump is expected to visit Texas along with First Lady Melania Trump on Friday. His visit will likely include meetings with state officials and families affected by the tragedy.