Two wildfires, the South Fork Fire and the Salt Fire, have ravaged southern New Mexico, resulting in at least two fatalities and the destruction of approximately 1,400 buildings. These fires, which ignited on Monday on the Mescalero Apache Reservation, have scorched over 23,000 acres and remain completely uncontained.
This prompted mandatory evacuations for the Village of Ruidoso and Ruidoso Downs, affecting around 8,000 residents. In addition to the destruction, heavy rains and flash floods have exacerbated the situation, necessitating water rescues.
The fires have led to the loss of around 500 homes, making it one of the most devastating wildfires in New Mexico’s history. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency in Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Reservation.
The origins of the fires are still under investigation. Village of Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford described the destruction as devastating, with entire areas of the community completely burned.
Devastating Wildfires and Flash Floods Ravage Southern New Mexico, Resulting in Two Fatalities and 1,400 Buildings Destroyed
The wildfires have claimed at least two lives. Patrick Pearson, a 60-year-old country musician, was found deceased near the Swiss Chalet Motel in Ruidoso. Another unidentified individual was discovered in a burned vehicle on Ranier Road.
Some residents who chose to remain in their homes instead of evacuating are unaccounted for, raising concerns about further potential fatalities. Search teams have been dispatched to locate any remaining residents.
Flash flooding has compounded the crisis in the fire-stricken areas. A powerful storm on Wednesday brought 1 to 3 inches of rain to the Ruidoso area, causing flash flood warnings to be issued.
The National Weather Service warned of more thunderstorms expected to bring additional rainfall, which could lead to further flash flooding on the new burn scars. Swift-water rescues were conducted at an RV park between Ruidoso Downs and Glencoe.
Governor Grisham emphasized the dangers of crossing flooded areas, urging residents to avoid attempting to traverse flooded roads on foot or by vehicle. The combination of ongoing fires and subsequent flooding presents a significant threat to the safety and well-being of the affected communities, highlighting the urgent need for continued emergency response and support.
