At least 1 dead in New Mexico wildfire that forced thousands to flee, governor's office says

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico declared a state of emergency following wind-whipped wildfires that forced thousands to evacuate a mountain village. The wildfires, which have already claimed one life and left another person seriously injured, have ravaged over 500 structures, with the extent of damage to homes still unclear. Efforts to combat the fires are being bolstered by the imminent arrival of a top-level fire management team, as the blazes have scorched a total of 31 square miles in Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Reservation. The cause of the fires is under investigation, though they are currently listed as human-caused by the Southwest Coordination Center, adding to a history of destructive wildfires in New Mexico.

Residents faced urgent evacuation orders as flames approached the village, with many describing a chaotic and terrifying scene. Power outages affected parts of the area, prompting evacuees to seek refuge in neighboring cities like Roswell. To ensure the safety of animals and livestock, they were moved to state fairgrounds in Roswell as part of the evacuation efforts. The situation remains challenging, with officials urging continued vigilance as the wildfires continue to pose a threat to the region's residents and landscape.

Regional History | New Mexico Wildfires

New Mexico experiences wildfires fairly frequently, especially during the dry and hot seasons. The frequency of wildfires in New Mexico can vary from year to year depending on factors such as weather conditions, vegetation density, and human activities. The state has a history of wildfires due to its arid climate and vast areas of forest and grasslands.

New Mexico has a long history of wildfires, with some recent blazes being among the largest and most destructive in the state's history:

• Calf Canyon-Hermits Peak Fire (2022): This fire is the largest recorded in New Mexico's history, burning an estimated 341,735 acres. Originating in the Santa Fe National Forest, it caused extensive damage and required the evacuation of several communities.
• Black Fire (2022): Occurring in the Gila National Forest, this wildfire consumed over 325,000 acres. It is one of the state's most significant fires in terms of area burned.
• Whitewater-Baldy Complex Fire (2012): Before the Calf Canyon-Hermits Peak Fire, this was the largest wildfire in New Mexico's history, scorching approximately 297,845 acres in the Gila Wilderness. It was caused by lightning strikes and led to significant ecological and environmental impacts.
• Las Conchas Fire (2011): This fire burned through 156,593 acres and is particularly notable for its impact on the Los Alamos National Laboratory and surrounding areas. It started due to a fallen power line and quickly spread due to dry conditions and strong winds.
• Cerro Grande Fire (2000): Initially set as a controlled burn intended to reduce forest undergrowth, this fire got out of control and burned around 47,650 acres. It led to the evacuation of Los Alamos and destroyed more than 400 homes.

The frequency and intensity of wildfires in New Mexico have increased over the years, attributed largely to climate change, prolonged droughts, and forest management practices. These fires have not only led to significant economic losses but also impacted air quality, wildlife habitats, and community structures.

Top 6 Wildfire Prepping Tips

1. Keep your surroundings clear of dry leaves, brush, and other flammable materials within a significant distance from your home.
2. Create a defensible space by maintaining a well-watered garden and using fire-resistant plants.
3. Develop an evacuation plan and ensure all family members are aware of it.
4. Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as water, food, medications, important documents, and first aid supplies.
5. Stay informed about local fire conditions and warnings through reliable sources like local authorities or weather alerts.
6. Regularly practice fire drills with your family to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of a wildfire.

Our Resources:

Wildfire Evacuations: Knowing When to Bug Out

Protecting Your Property Against Wildfires

Fire Evacuation Challenge

Droughts 101