In August, there were approximately four separate mudslides on NM Highway 38 between Questa and Red River which shut down the road for several hours, making travel from Questa to Red River impossible. Heavy rain in the days leading up to and on the days of the mudslides were the leading cause of the repeated incidents.

On August 7, the first reported mudslide that shut down the road occurred around 3:30 p.m. near mile marker 9. The road remained closed through 6:30 p.m. as NMDOT worked to clear the debris. No injuries were reported in this incident.

A few days later, on August 11, another mudslide was reported around 3 p.m. between mile marker 8 and 10, the same approximate area as the slide on August 7. Upon speaking with dispatch, the Questa del Rio News discovered that three mudslides in total had occurred, causing widespread rocks, mud, and debris to shut down the road for several hours. At approximately 5:30 p.m., officials worked to clear one lane, allowing traffic to alternate east and west to pass.

Mudslides between Red River and Questa are not uncommon. While thankfully, no injuries were reported in any of the August incidents, many locals and tourists were inconvenienced by the road closures each time.

We reached out to the NMDOT to ask if any upgrades or mitigation efforts are planned for this stretch of road to prevent and limit future impacts to travelers. Public Information Officer Jim Murray of NMDOT District 5 said, “at present, we do not have anything in our long-range plans regarding NM Highway 38. We will continue to respond to clear the road whenever these events occur.”

According to Ready.gov, if you’re traveling in an area prone to landslide activity, especially during rainy, wet weather, it’s important to remain alert and vigilant. Keep watch for any change in the landscape such as moving trees or boulders moving into the roadway. If you see an active mudslide in progress, do not attempt to pass the area. Stop and turn around, leaving as quickly as possible.