Flash Flood — Lincoln, New Mexico

2024-08-12 · near Ruidoso, Lincoln, New Mexico

Event narrative

Storms over the South Fork burn scar resulted in flash flooding in the Upper Canyon neighborhood including Johnson Road and Main Road requiring the closing of Main Road at Bridge 1. High flows in the Rio Ruidoso eventually flowed downstream resulting in water flowing across North Eagle Drive. Ruidoso Municipal Schools were put under a shelter in place notice while the flash flood warning was in effect.

Wider weather episode

The monsoon high shifted east of New Mexico on August 12th resulting in a traditional monsoon setup over the state. Storms developed over the Sacramento Mountains midday August 12th producing heavy rainfall over the South Fork and Salt Fire burn scars. This resulted in flash flooding and higher flows in the Upper Canyon neighborhood and the closure of bridges in the area. Storms dissipated during the evening hours.

View location on OpenStreetMap → (33.3465, -105.7201)

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1193084. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.