Flash flood watch in Ruidoso as monsoon rains continue; more rain expected
Flood waters rushed through Ruidoso over the weekend, transforming roads into rivers and leading 100 people to be rescued by National Guard troops.
More heavy rain is expected. A flash flood watch is in place in Ruidoso and nearby areas from 11 a.m. into the evening on Monday, July 1, according to the National Weather Service.
The rising water may result in flooding of rivers, arroyos and low-lying areas. Roadways may become impassable, and streams may rise above banks, according to the National Weather Service.
Monsoon rain combined with burn scars from the South Fork and Salt Fires created a chaotic scene — an SUV submerged in floodwaters with a driver trapped inside, fast-moving water gushing from windows of shops and restaurants, and people carried to safety by National Guard tactical vehicles.
An urgent evacuation advisory was issued over the weekend, and another could be on the way, according to the village of Ruidoso. Residents and visitors are advised to monitor weather updates, heed flood watches or warnings, and seek higher ground if possible.
Meanwhile, fire crews continue containment efforts, with the South Fork and Salt Fire still affecting over 25,000 acres. Fires are at 84% containment as of Monday, July 1.
Rain has helped suppress some of the blaze, and crews are helping with flood mitigation alongside fighting the fire, according to the village.
Flash flood watch vs warning
Residents in the area are urged to monitor updates. A flash flood watch is when flash flooding is possible or close to the watch area, according to the National Weather Service. Flash flood watches are generally issued for flooding that is expected to occur within 6 hours after heavy rains have ended.
A flash flood warning is when flash flooding is occurring or imminent in the warning area, according to the National Weather Service.
How to stay safe
If in a low-lying area, seek higher ground and follow evacuation orders.
Drivers should stay away from flooded roads and never drive around barriers. Only six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult, while 12 inches can carry away most cars. It is never safe to drive or walk into flood waters.
Sandbags are available at the following locations in Ruidoso, New Mexico:
Wingfield Park, 300 Center St.
Ruidoso Fire Department Station 2, 606 White Mountain Drive
Ruidoso Downs Senior Center, 393 U.S. Highway 70
Copper Ridge, 111 Copper Ridge Road
Ruidoso Downs race track update
Flash flooding from the recent burn scars damaged the racetrack Saturday afternoon during trials for the $1 million Rainbow Futurity at Ruidoso Downs Race Track and Casino.
The racetrack's damage occurred from debris carried down the Rio Ruidoso into the Ruidoso Downs community from flooding in midtown Ruidoso and other areas.
No make-day for the Rainbow Derby and Rainbow Oaks trials has been set. The makeup day for the race was set for Monday, July 1.
Stay updated at village of Ruidoso.
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Heavy rains, burn scars cause flooding in Ruidoso
