South Fork and Salt (NMMEA)

Wildfire Status:

The South Fork and Salt Fires, which ignited on June 17, 2024, in the vicinity of Ruidoso, New Mexico, are currently at 99% containment. The South Fork Fire has burned approximately 17,569 acres, while the Salt Fire has affected around 7,939 acres. Both fires originated on the Mescalero Apache Reservation and have posed significant threats to local communities, leading to evacuation orders following rapid growth within the first 24 hours. As of now, firefighting efforts have been remarkably effective, with a high level of containment reported.

Fire agencies, including the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Mescalero Agency and other local wildland firefighting teams, have been actively engaged in full suppression responses to manage the situation. Command has transitioned to the Southwest Area Team 5, led by Incident Commander Dave Gesser, to oversee the remaining operations as the focus shifts towards final suppression repair. An Emergency Closure Order for national forest lands within the Smokey Bear Ranger District has been implemented to ensure the safety of both firefighting personnel and the public, along with Stage II fire restrictions across the Lincoln National Forest.

Weather conditions have been favorable for containment efforts, allowing crews to make significant headway in controlling the fires. The expected containment date for both fires is set for July 15, 2024. As the situation continues to stabilize, firefighting agencies remain vigilant, monitoring the area for any flare-ups or changes in fire behavior.

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Containment History:

Fire Growth History: