Forestry Division would like to update you on a fire that is requiring the attention of state, local and federal resources in New Mexico.
The Las Tusas fire is located on private land near HWY 94, west of Sapello in San Miguel County. The cause of the fire is under investigation. State, local and federal resources are responding and fire managers have implemented a full suppression strategy. At this time, the fire has burned over 1,000 estimated acres. Firefighters have confirmed that structures were lost and emergency responders are currently in the area assessing the damage. Evacuations are in place.
Resources: This morning, the Northern New Mexico Type 3 Incident Management Team assumed command of the fire.
2 Hotshot crews, 1 Type 2 IA Handcrew, 4 dozers, 6 engines, multiple volunteer engines, 1 Type 3 Helicopter. Additional resources such as an air attack, hotshot crews, engines and infrared mapping aircraft have been ordered by the team to bolster the firefighting effort.
Weather: Strong west to northwest winds and low humidity will impact portions of central and eastern New Mexico again today as an upper low pressure system lifts northward into Colorado. A Red Flag Warning is in place for the area until 8 p.m. this evening. A Wind Advisory predicts winds from the west to northwest at 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.
Evacuations: Evacuations are in place for Highway 94 residents from Canoncito to the intersection of Highway 266 and 94. Shelters for evacuees have been set up in San Miguel County at the locations listed below.
– Abe Montoya Recreation Center, 1751 N Grand Ave, Las Vegas, NM 87701.
– Storrie Lake State Park, 3 Esequiel C De Baca LN, Las Vegas, NM 87701
Closures: HWY 94 has been closed to incoming traffic.
Smoke: Individuals sensitive to wildfire smoke should take precautions and use the New Mexico Department of Health 5-3-1 Visibility Method to determine if it’s safe to be outside. Learn more at https://nmtracking.org/
