Ruidoso flooding presents challenges for fire crews - YouTube - KQER,Albuquerque,New Mexico

Wildfire Update:Despite the rain,the wildfires burn uncontained.At least two were killed and many more are missing.The rain did stop the burning of structures and firefighters are trying to make a firebreak to halt further burning of the village.New Mexico has applied for a declaration of National Emergency from President Biden and he will approve it within 24 hours.This will enable federal funds to flow into the devastated area as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) takes charge.Five hundred homes were lost.The cost of recovery will be steep,but New Mexico's congressional delegtion has informed their colleagues of the need for an appropriation.It's routine for the U.S. Government to shoulder such a burden.

Ruidoso, New Mexico, hit by wildfires, leaving two dead - NBC News

At least two were killed and others are missing.Now parts of the village are in danger of flash flooding and mudslides.

Major Astronomical Night Friday

Three significant astronomical events are occurring tonight.If you are in Europe,West Asia or Africa,they may already be occurring.You must consult your local news media for exact details for your area.
First,it is the night of the Snow Moon,the first full moon of February.Native American tribes gave a name to each full moon,and this is the name they gave to February's full moon,as February is typically the snowiest month of the year in North America.They also called it the Hunger Moon,because it was rather difficult to find food in this cold winter month.It will also be visible tomorrow night.*
Second,it is the Penumbral Lunar Eclipse.The Moon will be passing through Earth's outer shadow,taking on a slightly grayish appearance-not spectacular looking,but of interest nonetheless.It will be visible in Eastern North and South America;Europe;Africa;and West Asia.Again,you must check your local media for the times to look in your area.The North American times in EST are:
Begins at 5:34 pm EST;
Greatest extent at 7:44 pm EST;
Ends at 9:53 pm EST.*
Finally,Comet 45p will reach its closest point to Earth,7.4 million miles away.Best time to look in North America is 3:00 am EST in the Eastern sky.Naked eye viewing is a long shot;binoculars or a telescope are pretty much required.Even in good binoculars,it will be a blue-green hazy patch.It has a blue-green head and a tail.Do not expect to see the comet's structure.That requires a telescope with a camera attached taking a long exposure photograph.The comet may be located at various points in the night sky in the coming weeks.It will return in 2022.