Catastrophe in New Mexico: Flood waves sweep away houses!

Catastrophe in New Mexico: Flood waves sweep away houses!

Things are currently going haywire in Ruidoso, New Mexico: violent flash floods after heavy rain have left the city in fear and terror. Dramatic images show masses of water sweeping away an entire house. Mayor Lynn Crawford speaks of serious dangers posed by gas leaks, mudslides and submerged bridges. Dozens of people have already been rescued from the floods, some of whom had to be taken to hospital. Three people are currently missing, while there is currently no information about deaths, reports a community spokeswoman. These current severe weather events are not just limited to New Mexico; There have also been significant floods in Texas in recent days, which have killed more than 100 people and left over 160 missing.

The flooding in Ruidoso has already led to calls for a state of emergency to mobilize more resources. According to El Paso Times, a hastily called meeting was held during a week of severe storms during which Mayor Crawford stated that this declaration would provide access to further financial assistance. The governor's office has also been notified and is expected to act quickly to address the ongoing threat. Up to two inches of rain per hour could fall over the next few days, closing roads among other things.

Flood warnings and emergency response

Ruidoso remains under a flood warning until further notice, meaning many roads are impassable and drivers are in a bind. According to the pictures, the water masses are threateningly close to the huts and are therefore endangering the people living there. Fortunately, the Ruidoso Downs racecourse was spared from the flood because protective measures in the form of earth walls were taken in good time. The coming racing days are therefore secured, but for the time being the safety of the residents is the top priority.

In addition to these immediate threats, we also need to think about the long-term impacts of these extreme weather phenomena. As the European Environment Agency notes, global warming has led to an increase in extreme weather events in recent decades. In Europe, over 5.5 million people have suffered from floods in the last three decades alone. Tragically, floods in the past have not only cost numerous lives, but have also caused immense economic damage.

Global climate change and its consequences

In 2023, temperatures are expected to continue rising, potentially becoming the warmest year in more than 100,000 years. Extreme weather events, such as devastating floods and wildfires, are no longer just local phenomena. They are a global problem that threatens energy supplies, food security and general health. This affects us all, including here in Cologne and beyond.

The situation in Ruidoso and events in Europe are stark reminders that we must fight together against the challenges of climate change. This much is certain: there is something going on! The need for viable solutions to climate protection and natural disaster management could not be more urgent.