"RAGING FLOOD IN NEW MEXICO: House Ripped Away, Kids Among 3 Dead as River Explodes Overnight"

 

A house swept away down a raging river in Ruidoso, New Mexico, as historic flash flooding struck on July 8, 2025. Monsoon storms dumped heavy rain onto hills scarred by last year’s wildfires, triggering rapid runoff into the Rio Ruidoso. The river surged from under 3 feet to over 20 feet in just minutes—possibly a record crest of 20.24 feet—forcing residents to scramble for higher ground.

Emergency crews launched 85+ swift-water rescues, saving people trapped in homes and cars. Sadly, at least three lives were lost—a man, a 4-year-old girl, and a 7-year-old boy swept away by powerful waters. Hospitals admitted several in stable condition, and three more were initially missing before tragic confirmations.

Onlookers captured raw video of a home carried away, its turquoise door a haunting reminder of lives upended. One Ruidoso artist said, “I’ve been in that house…and seeing it come down the river was just pretty heartbreaking”.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency, unlocking $750,000 in aid for recovery efforts. National Guard units joined local teams in search and rescue, while officials urged caution—warning residents not to drive through floodwaters and to avoid contaminated areas with possible mudslides and gas leaks.

This disaster comes days after deadly flooding in Texas, highlighting how climate-driven storms are overwhelming regions still recovering from wildfires. As floodwaters recede, communities are left to sift through debris, mourn lost lives, and rebuild amid growing climate hazards.