Daily Update: Tuesday, June 25, 2024 - Containment Increases on the South Fork and Salt Fires
The Village of Ruidoso and surrounding areas continue to see progress in the fight against the South Fork and Salt fires. Thanks to the relentless efforts of over a thousand dedicated personnel, containment has increased significantly, bringing a sense of relief to the local community. This update provides the latest information on containment efforts, weather conditions, and resources deployed to combat these fires. For more details, please refer to the contact information and resources listed below.
Public Information Map, South Fork and Salt Fires, Ruidoso, NM, June 25, 2024.
Contact Information:
Mescalero Apache Tribe Emergency Operations Center: 575-464-9214
Village of Ruidoso Emergency Operations Center: 575-464-9214
Fire Information Phone: 575-323-8378 or 575-323-8258
Media Information Phone: 575-323-8053
Phone Line Hours: 8 am – 8 pm
Email: 2024.southfork@firenet.gov
Current Fire Status:
Acres: South Fork – 17,556; Salt – 7,947
Start Date: June 17, 2024
Location: South Fork – Ruidoso Area; Salt – 7 miles west of Mescalero, NM
Personnel: 1,006
Containment: South Fork – 54%; Salt – 38%
Fuels: Mixed conifer, grass, pine/juniper
Resources Deployed:
12 crews
8 helicopters
61 engines
9 bulldozers
18 water tenders
Highlights: Containment on the South Fork and Salt fires has increased as crews continue to address residual heat sources. Despite the presence of heavy fuels still smoldering, growth potential along the perimeter is minimal due to reduced fire activity.
Fire Activity: Scattered thunderstorms on Monday caused localized flooding but did not impede progress significantly. Crews made substantial advances in structural assessments and containment operations. Today, efforts will focus on constructing direct control lines, mopping up hot spots, removing hazard trees, and securing the fire perimeter. Crews will also assist utility cooperators in accessing damaged areas for assessments.
Weather: Warmer conditions were observed on Monday, with temperatures remaining in the high 80s today. There is a lower chance of isolated showers. More moisture and a higher potential for scattered rains are expected on Wednesday.
Smoke: Smoke production will remain light to moderate. For detailed smoke information, visit Smoke Outlook.
Evacuations: No evacuations are currently in place. However, designated "NO ENTRY/EXCLUSION ZONES" remain in some areas of the village. For more information, visit Lincoln County Government and Village of Ruidoso South Fork Fire Information or contact the Emergency Operations Centers.
Tribal members displaced from the Mescalero Apache Reservation are encouraged to contact the Tribe's Emergency Operations Center at 575-464-9214 for assistance.
Closures: On June 20, 2024, a South Fork Fire Emergency Closure Order was issued for national forest lands within the Smokey Bear Ranger District. This order restricts public access to ensure the safety of firefighting personnel. More information can be found at Lincoln National Forest Alerts.
A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the fire area, prohibiting public/commercial drone flights. For more details, visit FAA TFR.
Additional Information:
