At least three dead in New Mexico flash flooding

 

At least three people are dead in the village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, after heavy rain caused flash flooding.

 Up to 8.8cm (3.5in) of rain fell, causing the Ruidoso River to rise to a historic level. The floodwaters have now receded.

 Local officials confirmed on Tuesday evening that a man and two children perished after being swept downstream. Village of Ruidoso spokesperson Kerry Gladden told CBS that search and rescue crews were still out in the field, and a hotline has been set up for people looking for missing family members.

Emergency crews in Ruidoso carried out at least 50 swift water rescues in the area, with residents urged to move to higher ground.

Ms Gladden said that three people had been treated for injuries at the local hospital.

Social media footage captured by local artist Kaitlyn Carpenter showed at least one house being swept away by floodwaters, with Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford unable to confirm how many homes had been lost.

Speaking on a local radio station, Mr Crawford said: "It got ugly really quick".