Blue Front Fire (NMLNF)

First Reported: 2024-10-28 16:37:51 UTC on October 28, 2024
Inciweb page: NMLNF Blue Front Fire
Size: 323 Acres
Type: Wildfire
Status: Field Active
Percent Contained: 100%
Blue Front Fire (2024-10-28)
323 acre wildfire (100% contained)
Ruidoso, New Mexico, United States


Wildfire Status:

The Blue Front Fire, located in the Lincoln National Forest of New Mexico, has been active since its detection on October 28, 2024. The fire is situated approximately 4 miles west of Alto and 9 miles northwest of Ruidoso, primarily affecting the Blue 2 wildfire footprint within the White Mountain Wilderness. As of the latest reports, the fire has been fully contained at 100%, covering an area of 323 acres. Firefighters have been engaged in extensive fireline construction and suppression tactics due to the challenging terrain, which is characterized by heavy dead and down timber.

A team including the Smokey Bear and Sacramento Hotshots, along with a Type 1 helicopter, has been actively involved in combating the fire. Despite unseasonably warm weather and high winds affecting operations, the fire has shown minimal behavior, and there are currently no evacuations ordered. However, residents in the Bonito Lake area are advised to remain in a 'ready' status, indicating they should be prepared for potential evacuation.

Weather conditions have been a significant factor in the firefighting efforts. Winds from the southwest have been recorded at speeds between 20 to 26 mph, with gusts reaching up to 50 mph. Fortunately, a change in weather is anticipated, bringing colder temperatures and snow at higher elevations, which is expected to aid in the suppression efforts. Fire officials are closely monitoring the situation and have advised residents to stay informed through emergency announcements and notifications.

Visit Inciweb Incident Page for more information. Information on this page is provided for informational purposes only.

Containment History:

Date Percent Contained
2024-10-28 0% contained
2024-11-01 0% contained
2024-11-02 50% contained
2024-11-04 52% contained
2024-11-06 75% contained
2024-11-17 90% contained
2024-11-19 95% contained
2025-02-24 100% contained

Fire Growth History:

Date Fire Size (Acres) Fire Size (Square Miles) Fire Size (Square Kilometers)
2024-10-28 50 acres 0.1 sq mi 0.2 sq km
2024-10-29 270 acres 0.4 sq mi 1.1 sq km
2024-10-31 316 acres 0.5 sq mi 1.3 sq km
2025-02-24 323 acres 0.5 sq mi 1.3 sq km