Catastrophic, life-threatening flood warning issued for thousands

Deluges of rain are set to batter parts of New Mexico this week, with forecasters warning of the risk of “catastrophic, life-threatening flash flooding.”

Residents and visitors in and around the town of Ruidoso have been warned to brace for the storms, with the flooding threat exacerbated by the areas of burn scars following devastating wildfires last summer.

A “reasonable worst-case scenario” predicts that about 5 inches of rainfall could hit this week into Wednesday, with about 2 inches of rainfall all but guaranteed, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

Besides the flash flood alert in Ruidoso, a number of other warnings and advisories are in place across New Mexico this week.

Why It Matters

The entire town of Ruidoso was forced to evacuate last summer, with its 7,000-strong population fleeing their homes as the South Fork and Salt fires razed huge swaths of land.

Two people were killed, more than 500 properties were damaged, and toxic smoke filled the skies. The water became undrinkable because of contamination fears. Parents were told not to wash their children in it, and those with open wounds or health conditions were advised to avoid bathing or showering.

One year on, the effects of the fires continue to threaten the town, with the area now at risk from flash flooding.

What To Know

The most severe warnings in place cover Ruidoso, and the NWS has shared a string of safety advice following its announcement that catastrophic flash flooding could occur.

The agency warned drivers never to travel through water “of unknown depth,” adding that roads may not be intact below. “Turn around, don’t drown!” the NWS said, warning that 12 inches of water can float most cars.

Residents should have more than one way to receive warnings and evacuation orders, such as a working radio as well as a TV or cellphone, the agency said.

Ruidoso is not the only place that has been warned to brace for flash flooding.

A warning remained in place until 1:15 a.m. Tuesday for the area around the Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon burn scar, with thunderstorms expected overnight Monday. Southeastern Otero was covered by a similar warning until 2 a.m.

Meanwhile, a flood advisory also exists across parts of south central New Mexico, including the counties of Dona Ana and Sierra. Minor flooding is expected following heavy rain and thunderstorms.

A flood watch is also in effect through Tuesday night across other areas, such as Roswell, while a similar watch is in place across the Albuquerque metro area and the Rio Grande Valley until Wednesday evening.

What People Are Saying

The National Weather Service said in an advisory for the area of Calf Canyon and Hermits Peak: “This is a life-threatening situation. Heavy rainfall will cause extensive and severe flash flooding of creeks, streams and ditches in the Hermits Peak Calf Canyon 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.”

The agency added: “Multiple rounds of heavy rainfall [are] anticipated over the burn scars surrounding Ruidoso over the next several days. Flash Flood Watch in effect. Near 2 inches of rainfall is expected through Wednesday morning, though around 5 inches of rainfall is a reasonable worst-case scenario. Make sure to have multiple ways to receive a Flash Flood Warning, heed all evacuations, and don’t drive through water of unknown depth! The road may not be intact below! Turn around, don’t drown!”

What Happens Next

Residents should monitor their local news and weather reports for the most up-to-date forecasts and follow official safety advice.