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.

Amid ongoing South Fork and Salt Fires, severe flooding has prompted evacuations and intensified mitigation efforts. Crews are balancing fire suppression and flood response amid heavy rains. Residents should monitor updates and heed safety advisories as weather conditions remain volatile.

Flash flooding is ongoing, and the Ruidoso Office of Emergency Management has issued an immediate evacuation for the Upper Canyon and move to higher ground. Evacuate immediately – do not delay and do not gather any belongings. Go now!. Shelter is available at White Mountain Relief Center, 687 Hull Road. Tune in to 1490 AM for updates.

Scattered storms triggered severe flash floods around Ruidoso on June 29, 2024, complicating firefighting efforts for the South Fork and Salt fires. Crews continue containment efforts amid minimal fire activity. Public safety remains a priority with emergency closures and flight restrictions in place. Stay updated via official channels for ongoing developments.

Urgent advisory for Ruidoso residents as a flash flood threatens the area until 8:30 PM. Evacuate to higher ground if near the Rio Ruidoso or low-lying areas. Shelter available at White Mountain Relief Center, 687 Hull Road. Tune in to 1490 AM for updates.

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.

Significant progress has been made in containing the South Fork and Salt fires, which have burned around 25,000 acres. All exclusion zones are now open to residents, while crews continue to address hot spots and conduct suppression repair. Key resources and personnel remain active, ensuring safety and recovery. Residents are urged to stay informed and allow emergency personnel to complete their critical work.

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 Village of Ruidoso announces the indefinite closure of Alto Lake following extensive damages from the South Fork Fire. The fire has compromised trails, recreational facilities, and the lake’s ecosystem, posing significant safety risks. Restoration efforts are underway. Your cooperation and understanding are greatly appreciated during this challenging time.

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.

As the South Fork and Salt fires near containment, more areas in Ruidoso are reopening. Residents and visitors should exercise caution as emergency personnel and utility workers restore services. Key updates include the closure of Mescalero evacuation sites by June 30, limited fire activity due to recent storms, and continuing smoke impacts. Visit official websites for detailed information and safety guidelines.

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.