Moderate Risk New Mexico  ·  Wildfire / Flash Flooding

Otero County NM

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

5/ 10
Threat Score
Population
67
Area
6,626
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Wildfire / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
5
federally declared

Otero County in south-central New Mexico is home to Holloman Air Force Base — home to the F-16 Aggressor squadron and German Air Force training units — and White Sands Missile Range whose test ranges extend into the county. The Sacramento Mountains create flash flooding risk during monsoon season. The 2022 McBride Fire burned near Ruidoso. The county is economically dependent on the military and tourism to the Sacramento Mountains and Lincoln National Forest.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 5 / 10    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Wildfire / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Military Proximity
FEMA Flood Zone Moderate
Federally Declared Disasters 5
Last Major Event 2022 McBride Fire
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (575) 437-6700
Emergency Shelters 6 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes US-54 US-82 NM-24 NM-506

// County Profile

County Otero County NM
State New Mexico (NM)
Population 67
Area 6,626 sq miles
FEMA Region Moderate

// Major Cities

Alamogordo NM

// Cities in This County

// Other New Mexico Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

White Sands Missile Range NM
Military Installation  ·  White Sands, NM  ·  US Army  ·  25-mi risk zone
7/10 High
Holloman Air Force Base NM
Military Installation  ·  Alamogordo, NM  ·  US Air Force  ·  25-mi risk zone
6/10 Moderate

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.