New Mexico wildfires force evacuations, spark air quality alerts
The Buck Fire. (Photo credit: Bureau of Land Management New Mexico)
Two large wildfires burning in southwestern New Mexico remain 0% contained as intense heat, wind and drought continue to fuel dangerous fire conditions.
The Trout Fire, located 12 miles north of Silver City—about 150 miles northeast of El Paso, Texas— has burned around 43,00 acres since it was first reported on June 12, according to New Mexico Fire Information. The blaze has triggered evacuation orders for hundreds of homes.
“These fires are being fueled by a combination of extreme heat, prolonged drought and very dry vegetation. Low snowpack across the Southwest last winter left the region primed for early-season fire activity,” AccuWeather Long-Range Meteorologist Paul Pastelok said.
More than 600 personnel are working to contain the Trout Fire. Crews are using direct handlines and dozer lines to fight the flames, while helicopters assist with water and retardant drops when conditions allow. But the weather continues to complicate efforts, especially at night.
Two wildfires were captured by a satellite as they were burning in Gila National Forest in New Mexico on June 17. Combined, the Buck Fire and the Trout Fire have burned more than 90,000 acres of land.
“Usually humidity rises overnight and helps us out,” Stefan La-Sky, spokesperson for the Southwest Area Incident Management Team said. “But it’s remained dry. So we’re seeing considerable fire movement even during the night, which we usually don’t see.”
The fire’s cause is under investigation.
Buck Fire continues to spread
About 120 miles to the north, the Buck Fire has burned over 57,753 acres near Aragon, New Mexico and is 39% contained. Lightning sparked the fire on June 11, and it continues to spread in grass and timber despite aggressive suppression efforts.
The Buck Fire. (Photo credit: Bureau of Land Management New Mexico)
Both fires have prompted area closures and trail shutdowns. The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) has asked hikers to avoid sections near the Buck Fire for safety.
Officials are urging residents to follow evacuation notices and avoid flying drones in the fire area. “If you fly, we can’t,” they warned, referencing the risk drones pose to firefighting aircraft.
Temperatures in the region remain in the low to mid-90s with extremely low humidity. Winds will begin increasing as red flag conditions move into the region.
“Winds across western New Mexico are expected to pick up Friday and remain gusty through next Wednesday. That’s going to be a major concern, especially with both fires still at 0% containment,” Pastelok said.
Wildfire smoke sparks air quality concerns
The Buck Fire. (Photo credit: Bureau of Land Management New Mexico)
Air quality concerns are also growing as smoke becomes more visible from highways and nearby communities.
“Smoke from these fires has already been affecting air quality across the region. Albuquerque will likely see impacts through the rest of the week, and Denver could be affected by the weekend,” Pastelok noted.
Health officials urge everyone to avoid outdoor exertion. People with asthma or other respiratory conditions should remain indoors. Those with heart conditions experiencing symptoms like a fast pulse, shortness of breath or unusual weakness are advised to contact their healthcare provider.
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