A severe flash flood struck the village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, on Tuesday afternoon, causing significant destruction. The National Weather Service issued a flash flood emergency, urging residents to remain vigilant as the area faces intense flooding. Multiple rescue operations are ongoing at Gavilan Trailer Park, with some individuals reportedly missing, although the exact number remains unclear, according to Kerry Gladden, spokesperson for the village of Ruidoso. Reports of injuries have surfaced, but details about their severity are still unknown.

Ruidoso is a mountain village located in southern New Mexico, approximately three hours south of Albuquerque. The local Office of Emergency Management has advised residents near the river to seek higher ground immediately and cautioned against driving through floodwaters due to the dangerous conditions.

Images provided by the National Weather Service illustrate the rapid rise of the Rio Ruidoso river within just an hour. The flood wave has reached the Hollywood gage, prompting warnings to stay away from the riverbanks. A video shared by a resident on Facebook captures a home being swept away by the powerful waters.

Another video clip shows debris-laden floodwaters rushing down a riverbank before inundating a small bridge and roadway. According to CBS News, numerous roads have been closed due to debris, and cleanup efforts are underway. The official Ruidoso village Facebook account has also reported gas leaks in the area.

The Rio Ruidoso at Hollywood reached a provisional crest of 20.24 feet during the flash flooding, potentially setting a new record high if confirmed. The National Weather Service continues to enforce a Flash Flood Warning for Ruidoso NM, Ruidoso Downs NM, and Hollywood NM until 7:15 PM MDT.

The flash flood emergency was declared after an inch of rain fell on burn scars left by last year’s fires. The agency emphasized the severity of the situation on social media, urging residents to seek higher ground and avoid driving through floodwaters due to the risk of vehicles being swept away.

Lynn Crawford, Ruidoso’s mayor and village manager, advised residents to stay indoors amid the hazardous flooding conditions. He confirmed that three people are missing but clarified that no injuries or fatalities have been reported so far. It remains uncertain whether the missing individuals include those previously reported as washed away by the National Weather Service.