Still recovering from last year’s wildfires, the mountain town of Ruidoso, New Mexico, was struck by catastrophic flash floods on Tuesday, June 8. Heavy monsoon rains caused severe flooding, mudslides, gas leaks, and widespread damage to homes and businesses.

Mayor Lynn Crawford called it one of the worst disasters the town has seen. More than 30 swift-water rescues were carried out, and multiple people, including children, were reported dead or missing. The village confirmed three fatalities: a man in his 40s, a 4-year-old girl, and a 7-year-old boy. Families later reported more deaths on social media.The flooding was intensified by burn scars from the 2024 South Fork Fire, which scorched over 17,000 acres and left soil unable to absorb water. The Rio Ruidoso surged to a record 20 feet. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham requested federal aid, calling the situation “catastrophic.”Emergency shelters have been set up as rescue efforts continue. Residents were urged to remain in safe areas and report missing persons to authorities.Meanwhile, Texas is facing its own flood crisis. At least 51 people are confirmed dead after record rains triggered flash floods across the state, with Kerr County hit hardest. Most of the 43 deaths there occurred at Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls. Twenty-seven children remain missing.

Camp Mystic, located along the Guadalupe River, was overwhelmed by a sudden “flood wave,” a rapid surge of water that swept through cabins and campsites. Emergency crews continue to search debris-filled rivers and terrain.The flooding followed a burst of severe weather and torrential rains across Central Texas. Officials warn the death toll could rise as recovery efforts continue and grieving families begin to identify the victims.