Homeland Security Secretary Inspects Ruidoso, Approves Millions I

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited Ruidoso to survey the damage done by recent flooding which also resulted in several fatalities.

Ruidoso, New Mexico ... a short, (2 hours), drive from El Paso has really taken a beating over the last couple of years. First wildfires destroyed thousands of acres then, the "burn scars" ... areas left without trees and other growth to help hold or soak up water ... opened a path for mass flooding and huge "debris flows" to hit the village.

Entire homes were swept away and at least 3 people, 2 of whom were children, have been killed.

A little over a month after deadly flooding devastated Ruidoso, the secretary of Homeland Security is coming to assess the damage.

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Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is expected to visit Ruidoso to tour the damage from the flooding this summer, including July 8 flooding that saw 3.5 inches of rain hit in about 90 minutes. The Rio Ruidoso crested at about 20 feet, picking up and moving homes down the river near Midtown. - kob.com

According to a KOB news report, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said she spoke with Secretary Noem who told the Governor that her request for federal disaster aid would be expedited and she could expect $15 million dollars.

$12 million of that was already promised last year following the devastating South Fork wild fire but hasn't yet come through.

The South Fork fire burned almost 18,000 acres and left a burn scar that has led to the massive flooding that Ruidoso now faces. If you would like to help teh Ruidoso flood victims, you can make donations to the Community Foundation of Lincoln County.

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Gallery Credit: KATELYN LEBOFF