RUIDOSO, N.M. — For the Village of Ruidoso, this summer has been marked by one crisis after another. On Wednesday, heavy flooding hit the area once more, adding to a string of weekly weather-related disasters that have left residents worn down and increasingly frustrated.
While no major injuries were reported during the latest flood, emergency crews were again called into action. Lincoln County personnel reportedly rescued one person, and a 60-year-old woman was pulled to safety from the Cherokee Mobile Village — a flood-prone area near the Salt Fire burn scar along U.S. Highway 70.
Local leaders and residents continue to voice concern on social media, where criticism of state and village officials has grown. Many residents claim not enough is being done to protect vulnerable communities. One of the most vocal critics, Brian Schamber, pointed out that culverts near Cherokee Village are too small to manage the current water flow. He said his offers to donate barriers or expand a drainage ditch were denied.
Schamber also highlighted a stark funding disparity, alleging that the Ruidoso Downs Racetrack and Casino received $34 million for flood recovery efforts while nearby homeowners have received no aid.
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Wednesday’s storm hit the Downs hard once again, washing out the track so severely that only fragments like the white guardrail remained visible. Online debate has swirled over whether the track can recover, though officials confirmed that restoration plans are underway.
Earlier this month, leadership at Ruidoso Downs announced a temporary relocation of operations to Albuquerque, where major events like the All-American Derby will now be held for the remainder of the season. Track owner Johnny Trotter emphasized that meetings with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and other state officials have led to promises of stronger flood mitigation efforts in the future.
“We’ve been assured by the state that action will be taken to improve flood control,” Trotter said.
Still, local authorities continue to warn residents to avoid driving through floodwaters. Despite repeated advisories, KOB 4 observed several vehicles pushing through submerged roads. Officials remind the public that just one foot of water can sweep away a car, and even six inches can lead to loss of control.
As storms persist and solutions remain elusive, the people of Ruidoso are left grappling with another reminder of how vulnerable their village has become.
