Heavy rain and flash flooding have hit southern New Mexico, where two wildfires, the South Fork and Salt fires, have been raging. The rain is expected to help firefighters in their efforts to control the blazes, which have already burned more than 23,000 acres. Despite the rain, officials anticipate that the fires will continue for several more days.
The wildfires started during a period of intense heat, leading to the evacuation of thousands of people and the destruction of over 1,400 structures, including an estimated 500 homes. Tragically, two individuals lost their lives in the fires, with one victim identified as Patrick Pearson, 60, who was found near a motel with burns. The second victim, found in a burned vehicle, has not yet been identified.
On Wednesday, temperatures in Southern New Mexico soared into the upper 80s and 90s before a storm brought heavy rainfall to the Ruidoso area. The National Weather Service reported that some areas received up to 2.5 inches of rain in just thirty minutes, leading to flash flooding in Cedar Creek. The floodwaters, carrying debris, ash, and hail, have made the situation “extremely dangerous,” according to the National Weather Service.
Water rescues are currently underway in Ruidoso as floodwaters flow down the slopes from the burn scars left by the wildfires. The National Weather Service has issued severe thunderstorm and flood warnings for several New Mexico counties, with parts of the state expected to remain under flood warnings until early Thursday morning.
The rain may provide some relief for the firefighters battling the blazes, but the recovery process for the affected communities is just beginning. The impact of the wildfires and subsequent flooding will likely be felt for weeks and months to come.
As we navigate through the aftermath of these natural disasters, it is crucial for residents to stay informed, follow evacuation orders, and support one another during this challenging time. The resilience of the community will be tested, but with unity and determination, the region will recover and rebuild stronger than before.