New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham joined Tom Dawson for a video interview highlighting the Village of Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs Race Track, and Lincoln County.

© Ruidoso Downs Race Track

RUIDOSO, NM—AUGUST 7, 2025—In a heartfelt video interview with Tom Dawson, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham shined a spotlight on Ruidoso, the Ruidoso Downs Racetrack, and Lincoln County—celebrating the community’s resilience in the face of unprecedented adversity.

Just weeks ago, on July 8, Ruidoso was ravaged by a catastrophic flash flood: an intense monsoon downpour—3.5 inches in 90 minutes—forced the Rio Ruidoso to crest at a record 20–20.24 feet, nearly five feet above the previous highwater mark. The deluge swept away homes, triggered more than 85 swift-water rescues, and tragically claimed three lives—two of whom were children—and left dozens of residents displaced and communities reeling.

The disaster was exacerbated by the scars left by the 2024 South Fork and Salt wildfires, whose burned soil layers failed to absorb rainfall—amplifying runoff and accelerating destructive flows. As recovery was underway, a second wave of flash flooding struck on July 24, forcing road closures, triggering more water rescues, and causing further damage to structures including mobile homes

Amid this dual crisis, Governor Lujan Grisham issued an emergency declaration on July 8, tapping state and federal resources to assist in relief and rebuilding. The community continues to benefit from FEMA-backed support—encompassing housing aid, medical coverage, and repair assistance for affected Lincoln County residents.

In the interview, the Governor praised Ruidoso’s spirit and reaffirmed New Mexico’s steadfast pledge to help residents and businesses rebuild stronger than before.

Click the arrow below to view the full video and hear her message of solidarity and unwavering support in this critical recovery phase.

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