Two wildfires have been causing chaos in Southern New Mexico, leading to the evacuation of thousands of residents. The fires, named the South Fork fire and the Salt Fire, started on Monday and continue to burn out of control, consuming over 18,000 acres of land.
The South Fork fire, which began in the Mescalero Apache Tribal area, quickly spread to Forest Service land and private property, affecting 500 structures. On the other hand, the Salt Fire has been contained within tribal land in rugged mountain terrain, making it difficult for firefighters to access the area.
As of Tuesday, both fires have not been contained at all, and authorities are still investigating the causes of the blazes. The rapid spread of the flames has been attributed to factors such as strong winds, low humidity, and the extreme heat in the region. The fires have been exhibiting characteristics like long-range spotting and intense heat, causing flames to reach heights of hundreds of feet.
Due to the severe drought conditions in Southern New Mexico, the fires have been able to spread rapidly and uncontrollably. The region has been facing drought for the past decade, exacerbating the situation. Despite the efforts of federal, tribal, state, and local departments working together to contain the blazes, the unpredictable weather conditions have made it challenging to manage the fires effectively.
Residents of the village of Ruidoso have been advised to evacuate immediately without trying to gather belongings or protect their homes. Evacuees have been directed to head east to Roswell, as some roads in other directions have been closed off due to the fires. The authorities are urging people to prioritize their safety and follow evacuation orders to prevent any casualties.
As the fires continue to rage on, firefighters are working tirelessly to protect structures and create dozer lines to contain the fire front. With no containment progress in sight, the situation remains dire, and residents are hoping for some relief with potential moisture expected in the region on Wednesday.
The wildfires in Southern New Mexico serve as a stark reminder of the impact of climate change and the importance of being prepared for natural disasters. As the region grapples with the devastating effects of the fires, it is crucial for residents to stay informed, follow evacuation orders, and support the efforts of the firefighters working tirelessly to bring the blazes under control.