Level II Fire Restrictions are now in effect in the Village of Ruidoso as of April 6, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. These restrictions prohibit campfires, charcoal grills, outdoor smoking, and fireworks, with limited allowances for gas and pellet devices. All fire pit permits are suspended. Residents and visitors are urged to comply to reduce wildfire risk.

April 1, 2026: The Village of Ruidoso has released a draft 2026 floodplain map based on a recent hydrologic and hydraulic study. The interactive map includes both current (2025) and draft floodplain data, allowing residents to compare potential changes. Final adoption is pending approval by DHSEM and FEMA. Residents are encouraged to review the map to understand possible impacts.

The Ruidoso Fire Department has released information on its latest ISO fire protection classification. Learn what factors affected the department’s Class 3 rating and the steps underway to strengthen staffing, training, water system testing, dispatch capabilities, and other areas to work toward regaining a Class 2 ISO rating.

The Village of Ruidoso Office of Emergency Management is asking residents to complete the REACH Survey to report disaster-related property impacts. Survey responses help officials assess community damage, coordinate with County and State partners, and connect residents with available recovery assistance programs.

Safe Skies New Mexico launches a 2026 statewide aviation safety seminar series offering no-cost, in-person training and FAA WINGS credit for NM pilots, aircraft owners, technicians, and aviation professionals. Hosted by NMDOT Aviation Division and the FAA Safety Team, sessions focus on real-world flying in New Mexico’s unique high-altitude environment.

The Lincoln National Forest plans prescribed pile burning on the Smokey Bear Ranger District from February 10–13, 2026, weather permitting. The Ruidoso Lookout Tower project will treat approximately 10 acres to reduce hazardous fuels, improve forest health, and lower wildfire risk. Residents in Ruidoso, Alto, Ruidoso Downs, and Hondo Valley may experience smoke; temporary area closures are possible.

NOAA Weather Radios are required by ordinance in all short-term rentals in Ruidoso to support guest safety and emergency preparedness. These radios provide real-time alerts for flooding, wildfire, and severe weather, even when cell service or power is limited. Learn how hosts can comply and where radios are available.

The Ruidoso Fire Department has released a new Business Fire Inspection Checklist to help owners prepare for their final inspection before opening. The checklist outlines common fire code requirements for exits, extinguishers, electrical systems, and more. Download the checklist and schedule your inspection at least three weeks in advance.

The Ruidoso Police Department is thrilled to announce the return of its annual Cops for Kids event on Saturday, December 13, 2025. This heartwarming program connects local police officers with children in need, spreading holiday cheer and fostering positive relationships within our community. Support the program by donating funds, gift cards, or goodie bag items, or by sponsoring meals. Together, we can brighten the holidays and strengthen community bonds. Contact the RPD at 575-258-7365 to get involved!

Filming has wrapped in Ruidoso for Hope Ranch, a new TV movie from Alison Sweeney. The production brought jobs, vendor spending, and statewide visibility as the community recovers from recent flooding. Featuring local crews and New Mexico’s rural film incentive, the project highlights Ruidoso’s beauty and resilience as a welcoming film destination.

The Ruidoso Police Department will close Highway 48 (Sudderth Drive) from Grindstone Canyon to Country Club Drive on Oct. 29, 3:15–6:30 PM, for the Midtown Halloween Event. Enjoy candy, costume contests, coffin races, and more in a safe, family-friendly celebration hosted by Ruidoso Parks & Recreation and local partners.

Phase 1 of hazard tree mitigation in the Blue 2 and South Fork burn areas of Lincoln National Forest is complete. Crews felled dangerous dead trees near roads, trails, and public sites to ensure safety and protect infrastructure. Trees remain onsite until Phase 2, which will handle removal and disposal. Planning for Phase 2 is underway.

Construction is progressing on Elk Meadows Apartments, a 72-unit workforce housing community north of Mechem Drive. Funded through state and federal programs, the project will provide 126 bedrooms and a community center for local workers and families. Construction began in May 2025, with move-ins expected in early 2027.

Flood-affected businesses in Lincoln and Doña Ana Counties have until October 27, 2025, to file July 25 and August 25 tax returns without penalty. Late filing/payment penalties are waived, though interest still applies. Taxpayers must notify TRD by email or mail with documentation. Details: Bulletin 100.47 and Form RPD-41096 at tax.newmexico.gov.

The SBA has opened a Business Recovery Center at ENMU–Ruidoso to assist those affected by July’s storms, flooding, and landslides. Local businesses, nonprofits, homeowners, and renters can get in-person help applying for low-interest disaster loans. Walk-ins welcome. Visit sba.gov/disaster or call 800-659-2955 for details. Deadlines: Sept. 22 (physical), April 22 (economic).

The Village of Ruidoso is open and ready to welcome visitors back. While recent flooding impacted some infrastructure, recovery efforts are well underway. Visitors are encouraged to stay informed, use the Discover Ruidoso app, and check the Monsoon Awareness page for real-time updates. Trails, shops, and restaurants are open—come enjoy the beauty of our mountain town.

State, local, and county agencies are offering free curbside debris removal in flood-affected areas of Lincoln County. Residents should sort debris into six categories and place it curbside following safety guidelines. Safe cleanup is essential for health and safety. Full details and disposal guidance available at dhsem.nm.gov/debris.

A precautionary boil water advisory is in effect for the Upper Canyon area of Ruidoso due to flood-related damage. Residents should boil water for one minute before drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth. No contamination is confirmed, but precautions are advised. Call 575-258-4343 for updates. Other areas of Ruidoso are not affected.

Due to hazardous monsoonal flooding, the Lincoln National Forest has issued a temporary closure for the Cedar Creek area on the Smokey Bear Ranger District, effective July 9–September 30, 2025. The order includes trailheads, recreation sites, and multiple trails. Visit the Forest Service website for full details and a map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/lincoln/alerts.

The Village of Ruidoso confirms that three people have tragically lost their lives as a result of the historic flash flooding that swept through the community on July 8, 2025. The victims were swept downstream by the unprecedented floodwaters that struck the area.