Severe flooding hit New Mexico town one year after devastating wildfires

RUIDOSO, N.M. (NBC, KYMA/KECY) - Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-NM) has signed an emergency declaration after severe flooding hit a town which was devastated by wildfires last year.

Ruidoso experienced flooding Tuesday after heavy rain fell on areas burned in blazes. The floods swept away homes, forced water rescues and closed several roads.

Emergency crews carried out at least 85 swift water rescues in the Ruidoso area, including people who were trapped in their homes and cars.

Three deaths have been reported so far due to the historic flash flooding. The victims were swept downstream by the floodwaters that struck the area.

The flash flooding happened Tuesday afternoon when heavy monsoonal rains fell on burn scar areas from last year's South Fork and Salt Fires.

Search and rescue efforts are underway.