RUIDOSO, N.M. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved disaster assistance for New Mexico following this week’s catastrophic flooding in the Village of Ruidoso. The aid will support recovery efforts in Lincoln, Chaves, Otero, and Valencia counties.
The declaration was approved by President Donald Trump on Thursday, July 10, after Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham formally requested federal support earlier in the week
The Village of Ruidoso is grappling with the aftermath of record-breaking flash floods that surged over 20 feet on Tuesday, killing three people, including two young children. Officials estimate that 200 to 400 homes were damaged or destroyed.
Governor Lujan Grisham visited the area Thursday morning, praising local emergency response teams and confirming that over $15 million in federal aid is expected—$3 million from FEMA and $12 million from the USDA.
“We were there, and now again we’re not,” said Mayor Lynn Crawford, reflecting on the village’s recovery from last year’s burn scar floods. “The biggest catastrophe of all is the three lives that we lost.”
Officials remain on high alert with more rain in the forecast, raising fears of additional flooding. The New Mexico National Guard has deployed 70 members and a Black Hawk helicopter to assist with search and rescue operations.
A missing persons hotline has been set up at (575) 637-0398, and shelters remain open for displaced residents.
The flooding also overwhelmed Ruidoso Downs Race Track, forcing the cancellation of the second leg of the Triple Crown quarter horse racing. Track officials are still assessing damage and say safety remains their top priority.
