Tanques Wildfire (NMSNF)

Wildfire Status:

The Tanques Wildfire, which ignited on July 18, 2024, is currently active in the Cuba Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest, approximately 27 miles north of Cuba, New Mexico. As of the latest update, the fire has spread to approximately 6,500 acres and is burning primarily through ponderosa pine, pinyon-juniper, and oak vegetation. Firefighters have managed to contain 60% of the fire's perimeter, and efforts are ongoing to control its spread.

Fire management is being conducted as a Type 3 incident, utilizing a confine and contain strategy. This approach involves managing the fire within a predetermined area while implementing various containment measures, including aerial and hand ignitions. Crews have been executing firing operations within a planned 7,000-acre perimeter to effectively control the fire's behavior. Significant activities on July 25 included aerial ignitions and coordination between ground crews and helicopter support, with operations concluding later that day. On July 26, aerial ignitions resumed, and fire activity is being closely monitored, especially with thunderstorms anticipated that evening.

Weather conditions currently pose some challenges, as drier air is expected to limit thunderstorm development, which could otherwise provide moisture to the area. Fire crews are actively patrolling the perimeter, ensuring that containment lines remain secure, while interior pockets of burning material are gradually extinguishing on their own. The incident command team is focusing on safety for both the public and firefighting personnel while also working to meet ecological objectives, including improving wildlife habitat as part of the Moya project. The situation remains dynamic, and updates will continue as firefighting efforts progress.

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

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