28 May 2024 | 03:09 PM UTC
US: Emergency crews working to contain wildfire in Lincoln County, New Mexico, as of early May 28
Emergency crews working to contain wildfire in Lincoln County, New Mexico, US, as of early May 28. Evacuations and road closures ongoing.
Crews are working to contain a wildfire burning in Lincoln County, New Mexico, as of early May 28. The Blue 2 Fire is burning in the White Mountain Wilderness Area, Lincoln National Forest, approximately 13 km (8 miles) north of Ruidoso. The fire broke out May 16 following lightning strikes and has grown to at least 2,905 hectares (7,178 acres) and is zero percent contained. More than 550 firefighting personnel are on site tackling the blaze. Warm, dry, and breezy conditions have helped aid the growth of the fire in recent days and a rise in temperatures is expected in the days ahead; further wildfire growth is likely in the coming hours and days.
As of early May 28, authorities have issued the following evacuation orders and alerts for surrounding communities:
Go Status (leave immediately): Bonito Lake Road, Forest Service Road 107, Forest Service Road 108, Highway 127A, Villa Madonna Subdivision, Loma Grande, and Nogal Canyon Road.
Set Status (prepare to leave at short notice): Sierra Vista Subdivision, Sun Valley Subdivision, Angus (west of 48, south of 37), Cora Dutton, Ski Run Road, West Highway 48 to Cora Dutton, Roadrunner, Magado Creek, and Ranchman's Camp.
Ready Status (monitor the situation and prepare to evacuate): Alto, High Sierra Est. (Enchanted Forest), Copper Canyon, Copper Ridge, Canaan Trail, western Sonterra (east of 48, north and south of Highway 37), Pine Hill Trail, and Capitan.
Officials could update, extend, downgrade, or rescind the status of evacuation orders at short notice depending on fire development. Emergency shelters for evacuated residents have been established at Capitan Fairgrounds and Capitan High School. Several roads in the vicinity of the fire are closed or have access restricted. Due to the smoke from the fire, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued air quality alerts for parts of Lincoln County.
Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complexes 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. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.
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.
