Current Status: No lives or structures have been lost to the Blue 2 Fire. The full suppression tactics employed today involved extensive ground operations, focusing on scouting control lines and beginning the construction of containment lines. The Albuquerque Type 3 Zone Team will transition leadership to the Complex Incident Management Team 3, with Matt Rau assuming incident command.

High winds today hindered aerial firefighting efforts. An infrared flight conducted on May 24 determined the current size of the fire, 3,249 acres. Smoke remains visible in Ruidoso and Capitan populated areas, and similar weather conditions are expected for the next operational period. A red flag warning issued this afternoon is expected to extend through the weekend, indicating heightened fire danger due to strong winds and dry conditions.

Evacuation Notices:

• Go Now:

  • Loma Grande

  • Bonito Lake Road

  • Forest Service Road 108

  • Forest Service Road 107

  • Villa Madonna Subdivision

  • Forest Service Road 127A, also known as Upper Eagle Creek, off of Ski Run Road and the surrounding area along 523 Ski Run Road

• Be Set:

• Be Ready:

Shelters and Resources:

• Shelters: Lincoln County Fairgrounds, 101 5th St., Capitan, NM 88316

• Animal Shelters: Humane Society of Lincoln County, 25962 US Hwy 70, Ruidoso, NM 88345

Area Closures: Parts of the White Mountain Wilderness Area are currently closed. For more detailed information, please refer to the following link: Closure Update for Trails on White Mountain Wilderness Area – May 22, 2024

Fire Details:

• Start Date / Time: May 17, 2024, approximately 3:45 p.m.

• Cause: Lightning

• Size: 3,249 acres

• Location: White Mountain Wilderness

• Resources: 259 Personnel, more en route

• Vegetation/Fuels: Dead and dead/down trees

• Containment: 0%

• Tactic: Full Suppression

• Smoke: Moderate / Wind Influenced Smoke

For ongoing updates and more information, please visit:

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M – Folks went out to Balloon Fiesta Park Saturday afternoon, not for hot air balloons but for the New Mexico Wine Festival. 

Wine enthusiasts said they love having all their favorites in one place for the weekend.

“It’s so great. I honestly feel like it’s just everybody coming together to enjoy our common passion of growing wine and making wine and selling it,” said Audrey Platt with Noisy Water Winery.

She says a lot goes into your favorite glass of red or white. From their vineyard in Alto to the winery in Rincon, and finally into customers’ glasses. 

“So it’s so nice to see all the finished product when you know how much went into it. And of course, a lot of the bottles they’ve been, you know, in tanks for sometimes a year, sometimes even more,” said Platt. 

Platt says New Mexico is perfect for grape growing.  

“They like to dry out, and it changes the flavor completely. It adds to like more of like a hardiness of the grape, and it really does produce quality wines. And I’ve seen that time and time again, it’s amazing,” Platt said. 

But with their roots in Ruidoso, the Blue 2 Fire is a big concern for Platt. 

“It’s kind of strange being here at this festival and having a good time and just kind of worried in the back of your mind. Like, oh, I hope everything’s okay, back home,” said Platt. 

People were still enjoying the wine and the weather.

‘”I’ve always just liked it. I always really enjoyed it, so it’s a nice vibe. It’s sunny, but it keeps it cool,” said Kiana Davis. 

The wine festival is going on until Monday, so you still have time to check out for favorite wines. 

Don’t forget, the “Take a Ride on Us” program through Bernalillo County is offering the Uber code “NMMD24” for the holiday weekend. 

Immediate Action Required:

• Voluntary Evacuation: Residents and visitors in Sun Valley and Sierra Vista are strongly advised to evacuate immediately. The recommended evacuation destination is the shelter at Lincoln County Fairgrounds in Capitan. Alternatively, you may stay with family or friends outside the affected area.

• Preparedness: If you decide to remain in your home, be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice. Have your emergency supplies ready, and keep a close eye on the situation.

Safety Measures

• Shelter Information: The Capitan Fairgrounds has been designated as the official shelter for evacuees. The facility is equipped to provide temporary housing and support during this critical time.

• Communication: Stay informed by tuning into 1490 AM radio for continuous updates on the wildfire’s progress and any additional evacuation orders.

SHELTER LOCATIONS AND RESOURCES:

What You Can Do

1. Prepare Your Evacuation Kit: Include essential items such as medications, important documents, food, water, clothing, and personal hygiene products.

2. Inform Neighbors: Make sure your neighbors, especially those needing assistance, know the situation and the evacuation advisory.

3. Follow Official Instructions: Adhere to any directives from emergency personnel and local authorities to ensure your safety and the safety of others.

Stay Informed

For the latest information on the wildfire and evacuation updates, continue to monitor local news and official channels:

LINKS:

Your safety is our top priority. Please take this advisory seriously and act promptly to ensure your well-being. Thank you for your cooperation during this challenging time.

Stay safe, Ruidoso.