27 Apr 2022 | 02:28 PM UTC
US: Emergency crews continuing to respond to wildfires burning in New Mexico as of April 27 /update 6
Emergency crews responding to wildfires in New Mexico, US, as of April 27. Evacuations ongoing.
Event
Emergency crews are working to contain wildfires burning in New Mexico as of April 27. Authorities in New Mexico declared a state of emergency for Colfax, Lincoln, San Miguel, and Valencia counties April 22. Red flag warnings and fire weather watches remain in place across much of the state as of April 27. Hot and dry conditions may hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days. Additional wildfire growth is likely.
As of April 27, the following large wildfires continue to prompt evacuations and transport disruptions:
Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon fires
The Hermits Peak and Calf Canyon fires have burned together. Hermits Peak Fire broke out after the Las Dispensas prescribed fire went out of control April 6. Unexpected erratic winds caused multiple spot fires that spread outside the boundary. The Calf Canyon Fire started April 19. The fires are approximately 19 km (12 miles) northwest of Las Vegas and are affecting San Miguel and Mora counties. The fires have burned approximately 24,351 hectares (60,173acres) and are 12-percent contained. More than 800 personnel are on-site battling the blaze. Some evacuation orders and transport disruptions are ongoing; click here for details. Emergency shelters for displaced residents are located at Old Memorial Middle School in Las Vegas, San Miguel County and Penasco High School, Taos County Agricultural Center, and Taos Youth and Community Center in Mora County.
Cooks Peak Fire
The Cooks Peak Fire, which started April 17, is approximately 50 km (31 miles) southeast of Taos and is affecting Mora County. The fire has burned approximately 21,862 hectares (54,021 acres) and is 18-percent contained. The National Weather Service has issued an Air Quality Alert for parts of northern New Mexico due to the smoke from the wildfire. Some evacuation orders and transport disruptions are ongoing; click here for details. Emergency shelters for displaced residents are located at Old Memorial Middle School in Las Vegas and Colfax County Fairgrounds.
Cerro Pelado Fire
The Cerro Pelado Fire, which started April 22, is approximately 11 km (7 miles) east of Jemez Springs and is affecting Sandoval County. The fire has burned approximately 2,220 hectares (5,485 acres) and is 0-percent contained. More than 281 personnel are on-site battling the blaze. Authorities estimate that the blaze will be contained by May 5. Some evacuation orders and transport disruptions are ongoing; click here for details. Additional evacuations are possible as the fire spreads. An emergency shelter for displaced residents is located at Jemez Mountain Baptist Church.
Depending on the wildfire progression, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. In addition, low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion.
Advice
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.
Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
