Discover essential resources for residents impacted by the South Fork Fire in Ruidoso. This comprehensive guide provides critical updates on fire conditions, recovery assistance, utility restoration, emotional support, donation opportunities, and shelter locations. Stay informed and supported during this challenging time.

Ruidoso Visitor Update - July 8, 2024: We are pleased to announce that Ruidoso is open and welcoming visitors. While we continue to recover from the South Fork and Salt fires, most of our attractions, shops, restaurants, and accommodations are available for your enjoyment. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to restore our community. Stay informed and enjoy your visit!

The Smokey Bear Hotshots and Ruidoso community united on June 30, 2024, to fill 1,000 sandbags to defend against flooding amid the aftermaths of the South Fork and Salt Fires. Their proactive efforts showcase community resilience in mitigating disaster risks.

In response to the South Fork and Salt Fires, FEMA has set up Disaster Recovery Assistance Centers in Ruidoso and Roswell. Residents and businesses can access vital support at multiple locations, ensuring prompt assistance and recovery resources. Register at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-3362 for aid.

Stay informed about your property amidst the South Fork Fire using our new interactive map. Enter your address to view evacuation zones and fire updates. Need help? Contact our EOC Phone Bank at 575-258-6900. Visit our website for more details. Your safety is our priority.

Join ENMU-Ruidoso for the Fire Disaster Assistance Fair on July 1, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.. Receive crucial support from legal aid, insurance guidance, health services, and more. Free food provided!

The NMED Drinking Water Bureau has lifted additional precautionary drinking water advisories for parts of the Ruidoso Water System and the entire Alto Lakes Water & Sanitation District. However, advisories remain in place for certain areas, including Tall Pines Water Association, Cedar Creek, Alpine Village, and Gavilan Hills Water System. For more details, contact Brandi Littleton at 575-323-4298.

Tularosa Basin Telephone Company/Tularosa Communications, Inc. has set up a free public WiFi access point at 433 Sudderth Drive, next to the First National Bank, for those impacted by the South Fork Fire. Connect to the network "TCI Public" for internet access. This service helps residents stay connected during the disruption. Stay safe and follow the South Fork Fire Information Hub for updates.

All areas previously under Exclusion Zones in Ruidoso are now open to residents. Upper Canyon may experience low water pressure. Flash floods and landslides are still possible, so immediate evacuation is required if called. Numerous hazards, including downed and falling trees, remain. Exercise caution and stay informed through the South Fork Fire Information Hub. Your safety is our top priority.

The New Mexico Environment Department has partially lifted the precautionary water advisory for Ruidoso and surrounding areas, including the Ruidoso Water System and several local establishments. The advisory remains in place for other areas, such as Cedar Creek and Alpine Village. For detailed information, contact Brandi Littleton at 575-323-4298. NMED ensures no discrimination in its programs and activities.

Residents and business owners in Ruidoso are urged to purchase flood insurance due to increased post-wildfire flood risks. NFIP policies have a 30-day waiting period, so act now for future coverage. Homeowners and renters’ policies typically don’t cover flood damage, but NFIP policies do. Contact 1-877-336-2627 or visit floodsmart.gov for assistance. Protect your property and stay informed with local resources.

FEMA and NMDHSEM warn residents to be cautious of post-disaster contractor fraud following recent wildfires. Use local contractors and verify their credentials through the New Mexico State Licensing Board. Be aware of scams like door-to-door solicitations, high-pressure sales, demands for large payments, and lack of written contracts. Report suspicious activity to local authorities or the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-223-0814.

FEMA and NMDHSEM warn residents to be cautious of post-disaster contractor fraud following recent wildfires. Use local contractors and verify their credentials through the New Mexico State Licensing Board. Be aware of scams like door-to-door solicitations, high-pressure sales, demands for large payments, and lack of written contracts. Report suspicious activity to local authorities or the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-223-0814.

Ground efforts in managing the South Fork and Salt fires are hindered by severe weather. South Fork fire is 69% contained, and the Salt fire 66%, covering 17,569 and 7,939 acres, respectively. No evacuations, but some areas remain restricted. Scattered storms increase the risk of flash floods. Visit www.ruidoso-nm.gov/south-fork-fire for updates.

If your property was damaged by a flood after a wildfire, you may qualify for the National Flood Insurance Program's Post-Wildfire Exception, which reduces the waiting period for coverage to one day under specific conditions. To qualify, the fire must have impacted federal lands, and the flood must be a result of, or worsened by, the fire. Contact your insurer to report your claim and determine eligibility.

Amid the South Fork and Salt Fires, Ruidoso residents may face price gouging—unfair price hikes for essential goods and services. Under New Mexico law, such practices are illegal. Report price gouging or fraudulent fundraising at NMDOJ.GOV/Get-Help or call (505) 490-4060, Option 3. Stay informed and protect yourself from exploitation during this crisis.

If your property was damaged by the South Fork Incident, complete the Individual Assistance Request: Form. This helps officials determine disaster recovery eligibility, including SBA disaster loans. Report the location, damage level, and photos. Access via ArcGIS App, survey URL, or QR code. Contact the Ruidoso Office of Emergency Management for assistance.

The Village of Ruidoso will host a virtual Community Meeting today at 5:30 PM, offering residents a chance to engage with local officials and ask questions. Join via Zoom (Meeting ID: 817 9524 7672, Passcode: 161214) or watch the live stream of the Village of Ruidoso YouTube channel. Your participation is important as we address community matters, including the ongoing South Fork and Salt Fire situations.

The Village of Ruidoso, in collaboration with the Department of the Interior and USDA Forest Service, initiated the Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) assessment for the South Fork and Salt Fires. With 24 specialists on board, the team is evaluating post-fire damage, despite cloud cover hindering satellite imagery. Ground assessments and community input are ongoing, with daily updates provided until the assessment is complete.

Containment on the South Fork and Salt fires has increased, with crews beginning suppression repair work to mitigate impacts. The fires, which started on June 17, have burned over 25,000 acres. Residents are urged to celebrate July 4th without fireworks to prevent new fires. Motorists should slow down in affected areas. No evacuations are in place, but certain zones remain restricted. For more information, visit Ruidoso-nm.gov.