Town Leaders Chided Residents for Warning of Flash Floods. Then, the River Took Two Children.

“The River Can’t Be Trusted”

After wildfires scarred the Sacramento Mountains above Ruidoso, New Mexico, the community was under heightened threat of catastrophic flooding. Officials were aware but continued to promote the town to tourists who were oblivious to the danger.

Town leaders chided residents for warning of flash floods. Then, the river took two children.

After wildfires scarred the Sacramento Mountains above Ruidoso, New Mexico, the community was under heightened threat of catastrophic flooding. Officials were aware but continued to promote the town to tourists who were oblivious to the danger.

Town Leaders Said They Were Prepared for Floods. First Responders Disagree.

Three people died in Ruidoso on July 8, 2025, after dangerous floods swept through the New Mexico town. First responders say they were understaffed and inadequately equipped to respond to the flooding.