Photo Credit: Jesus Figueroa
RUIDOSO – The monsoon rains continue to batter Ruidoso, prompting another round of evacuations this weekend. On Friday night and Saturday, the National Weather Service issued a flash flood emergency, citing catastrophic flooding. Residents were advised to avoid U.S. Highway 70 and Ruidoso Downs, with those in the area urged to move to higher ground. Authorities warned of rapid rises on the Ruidoso River, with rainfall rates between 0.5 to 1.25 inches and potential for even more rain up to 0.5 inches if storms persist.
Highway 70 has since reopened. Officials are closely monitoring the impact on reservoirs, bridges, culverts, and roadways, including Highways 48 and 70. Evacuation orders remain in effect for the Cherokee Mobile Home Park, where floodwaters have already damaged infrastructure, washing out the roadway and destroying culverts overnight.