2,000 Homes Evacuated as New Mexico Battles Two Massive Wildfires
2,000 Homes Evacuated as New Mexico Battles Two Massive Wildfires
Two raging wildfires have forced the evacuation of nearly 2,000 homes in New Mexico, prompting Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to declare a state of emergency.
The Buck Fire, ignited by lightning on June 11th, has scorched over 57,000 acres in Catron County and is currently 15% contained. Meanwhile, the Trout Fire, which started a day later in the Gila National Forest, has consumed nearly 25,000 acres and remains uncontained. Its cause is still under investigation.
Extreme drought, coupled with sweltering temperatures and gusty winds, fueled the rapid spread of both blazes. The relentless flames forced the evacuation of approximately 2,000 homes, though thankfully, no injuries or property damage have been reported so far.
A massive firefighting force of 875 personnel and 10 helicopters battled the inferno Tuesday, working tirelessly to contain the spreading flames. Governor Grisham’s emergency declaration unlocks $750,000 in funding for emergency response efforts, and the New Mexico National Guard has been deployed to assist.
“I appreciate our federal partners for taking this threat seriously,” Grisham stated, highlighting the collaborative effort to combat the crisis. The New Mexico Department of Health issued a smoke advisory for Grant and Catron counties, warning of potential air quality impacts as far as Las Cruces, nearly 130 miles away.
With a red flag warning in effect due to high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds, the fight against these devastating wildfires continues. The situation underscores the urgent need for preparedness and the devastating impact of extreme weather conditions.
Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.