As the South Fork and Salt fires near containment, more areas in Ruidoso are reopening. Residents and visitors should exercise caution as emergency personnel and utility workers restore services. Key updates include the closure of Mescalero evacuation sites by June 30, limited fire activity due to recent storms, and continuing smoke impacts. Visit official websites for detailed information and safety guidelines.

FEMA and NMDHSEM warn residents to be cautious of post-disaster contractor fraud following recent wildfires. Use local contractors and verify their credentials through the New Mexico State Licensing Board. Be aware of scams like door-to-door solicitations, high-pressure sales, demands for large payments, and lack of written contracts. Report suspicious activity to local authorities or the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-223-0814.

FEMA and NMDHSEM warn residents to be cautious of post-disaster contractor fraud following recent wildfires. Use local contractors and verify their credentials through the New Mexico State Licensing Board. Be aware of scams like door-to-door solicitations, high-pressure sales, demands for large payments, and lack of written contracts. Report suspicious activity to local authorities or the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-223-0814.

Ground efforts in managing the South Fork and Salt fires are hindered by severe weather. South Fork fire is 69% contained, and the Salt fire 66%, covering 17,569 and 7,939 acres, respectively. No evacuations, but some areas remain restricted. Scattered storms increase the risk of flash floods. Visit www.ruidoso-nm.gov/south-fork-fire for updates.

If your property was damaged by a flood after a wildfire, you may qualify for the National Flood Insurance Program's Post-Wildfire Exception, which reduces the waiting period for coverage to one day under specific conditions. To qualify, the fire must have impacted federal lands, and the flood must be a result of, or worsened by, the fire. Contact your insurer to report your claim and determine eligibility.

Amid the South Fork and Salt Fires, Ruidoso residents may face price gouging—unfair price hikes for essential goods and services. Under New Mexico law, such practices are illegal. Report price gouging or fraudulent fundraising at NMDOJ.GOV/Get-Help or call (505) 490-4060, Option 3. Stay informed and protect yourself from exploitation during this crisis.

If your property was damaged by the South Fork Incident, complete the Individual Assistance Request: Form. This helps officials determine disaster recovery eligibility, including SBA disaster loans. Report the location, damage level, and photos. Access via ArcGIS App, survey URL, or QR code. Contact the Ruidoso Office of Emergency Management for assistance.

The Village of Ruidoso will host a virtual Community Meeting today at 5:30 PM, offering residents a chance to engage with local officials and ask questions. Join via Zoom (Meeting ID: 817 9524 7672, Passcode: 161214) or watch the live stream of the Village of Ruidoso YouTube channel. Your participation is important as we address community matters, including the ongoing South Fork and Salt Fire situations.

The Village of Ruidoso, in collaboration with the Department of the Interior and USDA Forest Service, initiated the Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) assessment for the South Fork and Salt Fires. With 24 specialists on board, the team is evaluating post-fire damage, despite cloud cover hindering satellite imagery. Ground assessments and community input are ongoing, with daily updates provided until the assessment is complete.

Containment on the South Fork and Salt fires has increased, with crews beginning suppression repair work to mitigate impacts. The fires, which started on June 17, have burned over 25,000 acres. Residents are urged to celebrate July 4th without fireworks to prevent new fires. Motorists should slow down in affected areas. No evacuations are in place, but certain zones remain restricted. For more information, visit Ruidoso-nm.gov.

Containment of the South Fork and Salt fires has increased to 54% and 38%, respectively, thanks to the efforts of over 1,000 personnel. Despite scattered thunderstorms causing localized flooding, crews made significant progress in containment and structural assessments. Warmer conditions persist, but more moisture is expected. No evacuations are in place, but certain areas remain restricted.

Wildfires can cause significant emotional distress. Survivors, first responders, and rescue workers may experience anxiety, depression, and trouble sleeping. Resources for support include Agora Crisis Center (505-277-3013), New Mexico Crisis and Access Line (855-662-7474), and the Disaster Distress Helpline (800-985-5990). Specialized resources are also available for firefighters. Visit the Village of Ruidoso South Fork and Salt Fires Information Hub for more details.

Following the South Fork and Salt fires, which burned over 25,000 acres, USPS has reopened local post offices in Alto, Hollywood, Ruidoso, and Ruidoso Downs. These locations are now fully operational with specific hours. Delivery services will resume except in burn areas; residents in these areas can pick up their mail with ID verification. This marks a return to normalcy for the community.

Residents of Ruidoso affected by the South Fork and Salt Fires can access essential supplies at First Baptist Church, Lincoln County Fairgrounds, and White Mountain Sports Complex, where FEMA and Red Cross representatives are available. A new distribution center at River Crossing Ministries will open on June 25, 2024. Note: Donations are being accepted via cfolc.org/. Stay updated via the Village of Ruidoso South Fork and Salt Fire Information Hub.

Evacuations for the South Fork and Salt fires have been lifted as crews focus on mop-up, securing the perimeter, and structural assessments. The South Fork fire spans 17,551 acres with 37% containment, while the Salt fire covers 7,816 acres with 7% containment. Certain areas remain "NO ENTRY/EXCLUSION ZONES" due to ongoing recovery efforts by USAR teams. Stay informed via Inciweb and local government websites.

Due to the South Fork Fire, Zia Natural Gas has curtailed service in parts of Ruidoso and Alto, including Upper Canyon, areas west of Mechem (Hwy 48), Alpine Village, Cedar Creek, West Gavilan, Barney Luck, north Gavilan Canyon Road, and parts of Alto. Do not turn your gas meter on. Zia crews will safely reestablish service. For info, call (800) 520-4277. Your safety is our priority.

The Village of Ruidoso will allow residents to re-enter on Monday at 8:00 AM, but certain areas remain "NO ENTRY/EXCLUSION ZONES" due to ongoing recovery efforts by USAR teams. Two fatalities are confirmed, with potential additional fatalities identified. Access is only available via HWY 70 East or West; HWY 48 is closed at Gavilan Canyon. Report updates on unaccounted individuals to the EOC Phone Bank at 575-258-6900.

The FBI is offering up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the South Fork and Salt Fires near Ruidoso, New Mexico. Discovered on June 17, 2024, these fires have caused significant damage. The FBI's Albuquerque Field Office is working with various agencies, urging the public to submit tips via 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov.

The Village of Ruidoso is actively managing the South Fork and Salt fires. Join the community meeting tonight for updates. Fire suppression continues with significant resources. Stay informed on containment progress, weather conditions, and safety measures. For more details and latest updates, visit our website and follow the provided links. Your safety and awareness are our top priorities.

In response to the South Fork and Salt Fires, the NM Office of Superintendent of Insurance (OSI) issued an Emergency Order for enhanced insurance protections over 120 days. This includes grace periods for premium payments, early prescription refills, waived deductibles, and advance payments for living expenses. For support, contact OSI’s emergency hotline at 1-833-485-1336 or visit their wildfire resource page.